Why the West Lacks Large Monasteries

That is why in these countries we see no monasteries with such numbers of brothers. They are not supported by the resources of their own labor in a way that lets them stay in them continually. And if in one way or another, through someone else’s generosity, there is enough provision to supply them, love of ease and restlessness of heart will not let them stay long in the place. Hence this saying has been handed down from the old fathers in Egypt: a monk who works is attacked by only one demon, but an idle one is tormented by countless spirits. [a]