Thomas Merton On The Search for Wholeness

by Thomas Merton

From Audible notes: "In this audio program, Merton will challenge you with questions about man's individual destiny, the human condition, prayer, and nature of time. Originally delivered in 1965, these timeless lectures have been remastered and released as a set for your enjoyment. Delivered with wit and profound insight,these recordings will transport you into the abbey where Morton taught and imparted his spiritual wisdom.

"In the first part you will look at Greek tragedy and Chinese philosophy, both of which rise to prominence in the 5th and 6th centuries BC. The wisdom in Greek tragedy and Chinese thought is linked to that of the Scriptures, and in them we discover similar developments of thought. We see man acquiring a sense of identity and destiny as he comes to terms with freedom and responsibility.

"In the second half you will look at the Greek concept of time and how it relates to prayer. The monastic life that Merton lived was one of constant prayer, in which time is was differently. Merton looks at such great literary works as Marcel Proust's In Search of Lost Time and William Faulkner's The Sound and the Fury to explore the concept of time in our lives."

Genres: Religion

Audible Audio

Published August 16, 2017

About the author

Thomas Merton, religious name M. Louis, was an American Trappist monk, writer, theologian, mystic, poet, social activist and scholar of comparative religion. In December 1941 he entered the Trappist Abbey of Gethsemani and in May 1949 he was ordained to priesthood. He was a member of the convent of the Abbey of Our Lady of Gethsemani, near Bardstown, Kentucky, living there from 1941 to his death.
Merton wrote more than 50 books in a period of 27 years, mostly on spirituality, social justice and a quiet pacifism, as well as scores of essays and reviews. Among Merton's most enduring works is his bestselling autobiography The Seven Storey Mountain (1948). His account of his spiritual journey inspired scores of World War II veterans, students, and teenagers to explore offerings of monasteries across the US. It is on National Review's list of the 100 best nonfiction books of the century.
Merton became a keen proponent of interfaith understanding, exploring Eastern religions through his study of mystic practice. His interfaith conversation, which preserved both Protestant and Catholic theological positions, helped to build mutual respect via their shared experiences at a period of heightened hostility. He is particularly known for having pioneered dialogue with prominent Asian spiritual figures, including the Dalai Lama XIV; Japanese writer D.T. Suzuki; Thai Buddhist monk Buddhadasa Bhikkhu, and Vietnamese monk Thich Nhat Hanh. He traveled extensively in the course of meeting with them and attending international conferences on religion. In addition, he wrote books on Zen Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism, and how Christianity is related to them. This was highly unusual at the time in the United States, particularly within the religious orders.

Reviews

[Melody · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was unsure what to expect from this offering. It is probably a basic beginning to his total thoughts on "wholeness". I did find nuggets and points for further exploration on the subject. I believe his exposition on the chord that runs through other thought/philosophies such as Confucianism and yet how they fall short of true explanation or fulfillment is a serious point to explore more. He contention was they still leave another step that on Christ can fill. I agree, but how to approach this discuss with those who will disagree is the plight of a disciple of Christ.

3 stars for its brevity, not content.

[Theresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very short recording (2 hours) of a couple of lectures during a extra-monastic event with outsiders, not members of the order.

I found it challenging in some ways and will need to listen to it again (and again) to glean all that is contained in it.

Not life changing but definitely thought developing, if that's really a thing.

[James Curtis · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am not religious in any sense of the word. However, I appreciate Merton’s willingness to engage with other philosophies - especially of the Eastern variety. I often revisit his writings and speeches. A quick read, not much new ground here, but, worthwhile.

[Calene McAdams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thomas Merton was a voice of reason and peace.