Final answer:
The presence of fur-lined sleeves on the monk's clothing implies a juxtaposition between his religious and strict life and a comfort or luxury not typically associated with an ascetic monastic life. It indicates a complexity within monastic societies where religious devotion and personal indulgence could coexist.
Step-by-step explanation:
The fact that the monk wore "sleeves that were fur lined as the hand" suggests that although he was religious and strict in his practices, he was also inclined toward a certain measure of luxury and comfort.
This somewhat contradicts the traditional image of a monk as someone who is entirely removed from material comforts in order to lead an ascetic life, dedicated solely to spiritual matters.
In the information provided, we see a nuanced portrayal of monastic life where there is a merging of scholastic importance, religious devotion, and allowance for personal indulgence at various points throughout history.
Clothing in medieval times, including for those in religious orders, was not just about practicality but also conveyed one's social standing and values.
The fur-lined sleeves signify a status that is above the austere, reflecting possible ties to wealth or a desire to enjoy the finer things in life despite a commitment to religious austerity.
This nuanced view reveals that the divide between strict religious adherence and the enjoyment of worldly pleasures wasn't always clear-cut, even among the clergy.