Nikolai F. Kapterev as a Critic of Russian Monasticism

Abstract

This article will tell the reader about the view on the history of Russian Orthodox monasticism held by Nikolai Fyodorovich Kapterev (1847–1917), the pre-revolutionary Professor of the Moscow Theological Academy, Doctor of Church History. This view shaped as a result of the discussion on what the ideal ministry of monastics to the world should be. The controversy started with the article by the writer Alexander V. Kruglov «Serving the World — Serving God». After his article produced a strong reaction, Kruglov did not take part in the further discussion but yet found a lot of advocates, one of which was Nikolai Kapterev. The main issue in the controversy was the question of what the salvific activity of monastics has been within the tradition of Russian monasticism. Alexander V. Kruglov called on the monasteries and monastics to perform «The New Ministry» to the world, by which he meant for them to actively participate in charity work. Basing on historical sources, Nikolai F. Kapterev attempted to prove that Kruglov’s approach was legitimate.