Thomas Merton

Thomas Merton (1915 – 1968), was an American Trappist Monk, writer, theologian, mystic, poet, social activist and scholar of comparative religion. Merton wrote more than 50 books, mostly on spirituality, social justice, and pacifism, as well as scores of essays and reviews. Among is most popular works is his bestselling autobiography, The Seven Storey Mountain. THis account of his spiritual journey inspired scores of World War II veterans, students, and teenagers to explore offerings of monasteries across the US. 

Merton was a proponent of interfaith understanding, exploring Eastern religions through his study of mystic practice. He is particularly known for having pioneered dialogue with prominent Asian spiritual figures, including His Holiness the Dalai Lama; Japanese writer D.T. Suzuki; Thai Buddhist monk Buddhadasa; and Vietnamese monk Thich Hat Hans. In addition, he wrote books on Zen Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism,  and how Christianity is related to them.