Obedience is absolute renunciation of our own life, clearly expressed in our bodily actions. Or, conversely, obedience is the mortification of the limbs while the mind remains alive. Obedience is unquestioning movement, voluntary death, a life free of curiosity, carefree danger, unprepared defence before God, fearlessness of death, a safe voyage, a sleeper's progress. Obedience is the tomb of the will and the resurrection of humility. A corpse does not argue or reason as to what is good or what seems to be bad. For he who has devoutly put the soul of the novice to death will answer for everything. Obedience is an abandonment of discernment in a wealth of discernment. (John Climacus)

Obedience requires being in relationship with one's Master.

Obedience requires awareness of the Master's intention.

Obedience requires listening for the Master's instruction.

Obedience requires accurate understanding of instructions given by the Master.

Obedience requires acting on instructions received in the manner intended.