How long ago did the first monks come?

Answer 1

The first monks are generally considered to have emerged around the 3rd century AD, with St. Anthony of Egypt often recognized as one of the earliest figures in Christian monasticism. Monastic communities began to form more formally in the 4th century, particularly with the establishment of the Rule of St. Benedict in the 6th century. Thus, monks have been a part of Christian tradition for approximately 1,700 years.