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When he approached the Venerable [[Anthony of the Kiev Caves|Anthony]] to join him, Anthony, while affirming his worthy and blessed desire, expressed concern that the riches and honors of this world would cause Barlaam to turn away. Barlaam returned to his home with greater resolve. He returned the next day finely attired and on his horse, accompanied by servants leading other horses loaded with expensive goods. As the monks came out to greet him he fell to the ground at their feet. He took off his fine boyar garments and placed them before Anthony. He went on say that all his worldly goods he was giving to the monks to do as they willed. He further said he was doing this to acquire Christ and to live in the caves of the monastery. He then affirmed that he was not going home.
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Barlaam was born in Kiev, the son of the chief boyar, John Vyshatich, of Prince Iziaslav. The date of his birth is not known. He was a strong, tall young man who while decisive, bold, and practiced martial arts was religious and lived a pure life. He often visited the [[monk]]s who lived in the caves of Kiev. The [[Gospel]] made a deep impression upon him. He did not look for glory and found in the lives of the monks the Christian life he was looking for. Barlaam decided to join this life and become a monk.
After Anthony urged Barlaam to consider his decision seriously, Barlaam said he would not return to the world even if his father beat him. He, then, asked for immediate [[tonsure]]. Even though Anthony knew Barlaam’s deep faith he did not want to be responsible for his soul and firmly urged him to return to the world that he had left with such firm resolve. Barlaam did not relent. So, that day Barlaam was granted the [[monasticism|monastic]] tonsure. That was in 1056.
