Thomas Merton
Early Life and Education
Thomas Merton was born on January 31, 1915, in Prades, Pyrénées-Orientales, France. His parents, Ruth Jenkins and Owen Merton, were both artists. Merton's early life was marked by frequent relocations due to his parents' careers and the onset of World War I. After his mother's death in 1921, Merton lived with his father, who continued to travel for his work. This peripatetic lifestyle exposed Merton to various cultures and languages, significantly shaping his worldview.
Merton attended several schools in France, England, and the United States. He eventually enrolled at Columbia University in New York City, where he studied English and developed a keen interest in literature and writing. During his time at Columbia, Merton was influenced by prominent intellectuals and writers, including Mark Van Doren and Lionel Trilling. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1938 and a Master of Arts degree in 1939.
Conversion and Monastic Life
Merton's spiritual journey began in earnest during his time at Columbia. Influenced by his readings of Catholicism and the writings of figures such as Saint Augustine and Thomas Aquinas, Merton converted to Catholicism in 1938. His conversion was a turning point, leading him to explore a vocation in the religious life.
In 1941, Merton entered the Abbey of Our Lady of Gethsemani, a Trappist monastery in Kentucky. The Trappists, a branch of the Cistercian Order, are known for their strict adherence to the Rule of Saint Benedict, emphasizing prayer, manual labor, and silence. Merton took the religious name "Louis" and was ordained a priest in 1949.
Literary Contributions
Merton's literary output is vast and varied, encompassing poetry, essays, and spiritual writings. His most famous work, "The Seven Storey Mountain," published in 1948, is an autobiographical account of his early life and conversion to Catholicism. The book was a critical and commercial success, establishing Merton as a significant voice in contemporary spirituality.
Merton's writings often explored themes of contemplation, social justice, and interfaith dialogue. His works include "New Seeds of Contemplation," "No Man Is an Island," and "Conjectures of a Guilty Bystander." Merton was also a prolific letter writer, corresponding with a wide range of individuals, including Dorothy Day, Thich Nhat Hanh, and Joan Baez.
Social Activism and Interfaith Dialogue
In the 1960s, Merton became increasingly engaged in social issues, particularly the civil rights movement and the anti-war movement. He wrote extensively on topics such as nuclear disarmament, nonviolence, and economic inequality. Merton's commitment to social justice was deeply rooted in his spiritual beliefs, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all humanity.
Merton was also a pioneer in interfaith dialogue, seeking to build bridges between Christianity and other religious traditions. He engaged in conversations with Buddhist monks, Hindu scholars, and Sufi mystics, exploring commonalities and differences in their spiritual practices. His book "Mystics and Zen Masters" reflects his deep interest in Eastern spirituality.
Later Years and Legacy
In the final years of his life, Merton continued to write and engage with the world from his hermitage at Gethsemani. He traveled to Asia in 1968, visiting India, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. During this trip, he met with the Dalai Lama and other religious leaders, furthering his understanding of Eastern spirituality.
Tragically, Merton died on December 10, 1968, in Bangkok, Thailand, due to accidental electrocution. His death was a significant loss to the religious and literary communities.
Merton's legacy endures through his extensive body of work and his influence on contemporary spirituality. His writings continue to inspire individuals seeking a deeper understanding of faith, contemplation, and social justice.