Merton & Buddhism:

by Paul M Pearson, James A. Wiseman, Roger Lipsey

Divided into three sections, this insightful volume of essays by numerous scholars focuses on Thomas Merton’s interest in and transformation through Buddhism. In addition to analysis of how Merton's studies of Buddhism affected his work in the arts, the study also offers information about his Asian journey as well as a complete bibliography of secondary materials. Contributors include Judith Simmer-Brown, Roger J. Corless, Rubin L.F. Habito, John P. Keenan, Roger Lipsey, Paul M. Pearson, and James Wiseman, OSB.

Genres: Religion, Spirituality

271 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2007

Reviews

[Hossein · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s a very interesting book about a man who seeking god everywhere. Merton is a real inspiration even for unreligious people.

[Jack Darida · Rating 4 out of 5]

A friend who deeply respects Buddhist thought lent me this book. I have read some of Merton's early writings. I was not aware of his encounter with Buddhism and the Dalai Lama. These essays tell the story of Merton's fascination with Buddhism while also differentiating between the various aspects of Buddhist thought, critiquing the branch of Buddhism that captivated Merton and influenced his art. The reader should know that some essays are easier to read than others. Worth reading for anyone interested in Thomas Merton and his experience with Buddhism at the end of his life.

[Craig Bergland · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was just alright for me, probably because many of the articles seemed to have an agenda to point out what was lacking in Merton's understanding of Buddhism rather than outlining what he did understand. I'm not much of a fan of deconstruction, nor do scholars who seem compelled to prove how much more erudite than their subject they are have much appeal to me. Bonnie Thurston's introductory essay is great, but it slides downhill afterwards.