Thomas Merton: An Introduction to His Life, Teachings, and Practices

(Paperback)

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Thomas Merton was a Trappist monk and one of the most influential spiritual figures of the 20th century. His writings and thoughts have influenced generations and his legacy of interfaith understanding and social justice endures to this day. Merton was a prolific writer, best known for his bestselling autobiography Seven Storey Mountain along with his numerous other works on contemplation, monastic life, poetry, and social issues. Thomas Merton: His Life, Teachings, and Practices offers an exploration of Merton as a monk, as a writer, and as a man. Author Jon Sweeney delves into Merton's life and ideas with an appreciation for his work and a deep understanding of the spiritual depth that it contains. Thomas Merton offers a unique view of Merton, braiding together his thoughts and practices with the reality of his life to create a full portrait of this pivotal figure. The Merton revealed in its pages is a source of inspiration and insight for those wrestling with questions of faith and spirituality. At its core, the book is about the search for wholeness-a search Merton undertook himself throughout his lifetime and one readers can also embark on as they draw inspiration and guidance from his life.

Reviews

This is a much-needed bridge to reach Merton, or visit him again, so we can sit with the themes of solitude, inner freedom, silence, and respect for all humanity."
--Robert J. Wicks, author, The Tao of Ordinariness: Humility and Simplicity in a Narcissistic Age

"If Thomas Merton's life and work amount to something like the Louvre or the Met--full of shimmering masterpieces, weird sketches, and hidden subterranean passageways--Sweeney is the perfect docent to show us around. This indispensable guide to America's most famous monk is both spirited and measured, an insightful examination of a monolithic writer that never veers into hagiography."
--Dan Hornsby, author of Via Negativa: A Novel

Beautifully written and expertly researched, this is a truly superb short introduction to the life of one of the great spiritual masters of our time--of any time.
--James Martin, SJ, author of Jesus: A Pilgrimage and Becoming Who You Are: Insights on the True Self from Thomas Merton and Other Saints

Author Bio

JON M. SWEENEY is an independent scholar and a respected writer. A biographer of St. Francis and translator of his writings, Sweeney's books on Franciscan subjects have sold 200,000 copies. He's the author of over thirty books including The Pope Who Quit, which was optioned by HBO. Sweeney is editor in chief and publisher of Paraclete Press. He's appeared on CBS Saturday Morning and numerous other programs. Jon is married to Rabbi Michal Woll, the father of four, and lives in Milwaukee.