<p>Thomas Merton recognized the value and possibility of contemplative dialogue between monastics and contemplatives of other religious traditions and hoped that, through such dialogue, monastics would strive for &#39;inter-monastic communion&#39; and a bonding of the broader &#39;spiritual family.&#39; He held out hope that this bond would demonstrate the fundamental unity of humanity to a world that was becoming ever more materialistic and divided.<br />
Among other themes and topics, this book explores Thomas Merton&#39;s role as a pioneer of Buddhist-Christian dialogue and monastic interreligious dialogue. It delves into the process of Merton&#39;s self-transformation through contemplative experiences, explores his encounter with Zen and Tibetan Buddhists and his pioneering engagements in Buddhist-Christian dialogue, and presents and responds to the criticisms of those who raise questions about Merton&#39;s understanding of Buddhism.<br />
Fr. Jaechan Anselmo Park, OSB, articulates and analyzes the influences of Buddhist theory and practice on Thomas Merton&#39;s contemplative spirituality and shows how Merton&#39;s legacy has influenced and continues to inspire interreligious and inter-monastic dialogue, particularly in an Asian monastic context.</p>