A Hesychast is a member of a mystical tradition within the Eastern Orthodox Church that emphasizes inner stillness and prayer. The term comes from the Greek word "hesychia," meaning "silence" or "stillness." Hesychasts practice a form of contemplative prayer known as the Jesus Prayer, which involves repeating the phrase "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner" to achieve a deeper connection with God. This spiritual practice gained prominence in the 14th century, particularly through the teachings of figures like Saint Gregory Palamas. Hesychasm focuses on achieving a direct experience of God's presence through meditation and asceticism, often retreating to secluded places for prayer. The movement has significantly influenced Orthodox spirituality and theology.