Crossword Genius

Recluse beginning to appear agnostic is powerless (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ascetic

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'recluse' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

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(Other definitions for ascetic that I've seen before include "Frugal" , "One practises self-denial as a spiritual discipline" , "reclusive" , "Self-denying person who shuns ordinary pleasures" , "Austere disciple" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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