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Quote by Thomas Merton

“As a matter of face, Zen is at present most fashionable in America among those who are least concerned with moral discipline. Zen has, indeed, become for us a symbol of moral revolt. It is true, the Zen-man's contempt for conventional and formalistic social custom is a healthy phenomenon, but it is healthy only because it presupposes a spiritual liberty based on freedom from passion, egotism and self-delusion. A pseudo-Zen attitude which seeks to justify a complete moral collapse with a few rationalizations based on the Zen Masters is only another form of bourgeois self-deception. It is not an expression of healthy revolt, but only another aspect of the same lifeless and inert conventionalism against which it appears to be protesting.”

Quote by Thomas Merton

Book:Zen and the Birds of Appetite
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Work

Zen and the Birds of Appetite

This book delves into the principles of Zen Buddhism, drawing comparisons between the spiritual practices and the habits of birds, particularly those with appetitive behaviors. It aims to illustrate the interconnectedness of life and the mindfulness that can be found in observing the natural world. more

Author

Thomas Merton
Thomas Merton

Thomas Merton (January 31, 1915 - December 10, 1968) was an American writer, poet, social critic, and mystic. His works covered a wide range of topics including philosophy, religion, and social justice, and were highly appreciated by readers. more

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