From Monastic Life to Pixels: Ben Xi's Journey in Old School RuneScape

In recent years, massively multiplayer online games (MMOs) have captured the imaginations of players worldwide, establishing a major presence in the gaming community. One such game, Old School RuneScape (OSRS), has become a haven for nostalgia and engagement. Among those returning to the game is a player with an extraordinary story: Ben Xi, known in-game as Old School Monk. After dedicating 19 years to life outside of gaming, including six years as a Hare Krishna monk, Ben's return to OSRS is a fascinating exploration of spirituality, passion, and the undeniable draw of a beloved game.

A Journey into Spirituality

Ben’s transition from gamer to monk is a story ripe with dedication and introspection. Living in Wales, he embraced the principles of Hare Krishna, immersing himself in spiritual practices that enriched his life. Over those six years, he discovered profound truths and teachings while connecting with a community that celebrated the art of living. As enthralling as this lifestyle was, the call of OSRS lingered in the background, whispering tales of adventures, quests, and camaraderie.

The Call of Nostalgia

Years passed without Ben engaging in old-school gaming. However, the powerful memories forged through countless hours in Gielinor remained etched in his mind. Starting at the tender age of 11, Ben’s journey within the pixelated realms of RuneScape had been one of excitement and personal growth. As he approached his 31st birthday, the urge to reconnect with the game and relive childhood nostalgia grew increasingly irresistible.

The Break and the Return

The saying goes, "You don't quit, you only take long breaks," which resonated deeply with Ben. He decided to step back from monastic life and return to the world of RuneScape. "I quit being a monk to play RuneScape," he cheerfully states in his first YouTube video after nearly two decades. His return was not simply about playing a game; it was about revisiting a crucial part of his identity and infusing it with new experiences drawn from his spiritual journey.

Merging Spirituality with Gaming

In an unexpected twist, Ben Xi’s YouTube channel has become a platform where he synthesizes his gaming experiences with the wisdom gleaned from his Spiritual journey. Delving into themes that many gamers may overlook, he highlights concepts from the Bhagavad-gītā, offering meditative reflections even as he engages in the grind of OSRS. He emphasizes that spirituality doesn't have to conform to rigid standards; it can indeed flourish within the realm of gaming.

The Meditative Experience of OSRS

Many players find the repetitive nature of games like OSRS to be a pathway to meditation. Engaging in activities like Woodcutting or Fishing can lead to moments of reflection and tranquility. Ben's unique perspective embraces this notion, treating gaming as an extension of spiritual practice. He places emphasis on how one’s environment—what they listen to and engage with—significantly influences their mindset and actions. In his latest uploads, he delves deeper into themes of sound, vibration, and the choices we make in crafting our destinies.

Community and Connection

As Ben’s journey unfolds, the comments section of his channel transforms into a community hub where laughter, encouragement, and shared experiences abound. Players and spiritual seekers alike leave messages that celebrate Ben’s dual path. “My guy became a monk and still couldn't quit,” says one viewer, illuminating the intersection of serious life choices and the joy of gaming. These comments highlight the profound impact of his return, not just on himself but on those who resonate with his journey.

Pursuing 99 Prayer

One of Ben's endearing projects involves working toward the prestigious achievement of reaching level 99 in Prayer, a notoriously meticulous and costly endeavor within the game. Sharing his progress and goals, he exemplifies how gaming achievements can intertwine with personal aspirations, showing that video game journeys can mirror real-life challenges and milestones. With the help of his followers, he continues to drive forward, eagerly paving the path toward this ambitious goal, all while keeping the community engaged and entertained.

A Legacy of Gaming and Spirituality

Ben Xi’s story is not just a reflection of personal choices; it serves as a vivid illustration of the broader narrative of what it means to return to a beloved game after a prolonged absence. It reminds players everywhere that life can lead them down unexpected paths while still allowing for the revival of passions long thought lost. Old School RuneScape becomes more than just a game for Ben; it morphs into a canvas where spirituality, nostalgia, and community intermingle, crafting stories that will inspire both new and veteran players alike.

In a world that often compartmentalizes spirituality and leisure, Ben Xi's journey stands as a testament to achieving harmony between the two. For him, gaming serves not just as a pastime but as a meaningful aspect of his overall approach to life. His odyssey in Old School RuneScape is a delightful reminder that we can embrace the things we love—even after taking a long break—and emerge enriched, transformed, and ever-evolving in our pursuits.