Product Description Finding the Monk Within is written with the conviction that lying deep within every person and underlying much of contemporary western and eastern cultures is an ancient memory, a vital archetypal energy related to monasticism and its spirituality. This book recovers that monastic memory, the living presence of the past, for those who desire to name and incorporate monastic values: values of solitude and silence, faith and compassion, friendship and mentoring, contemplation and leadership itself.
The author examines the social and religious dimensions in the fourth century that gave rise to monasticism, then looks at Christian leaders from late antiquity to the medieval period associated with monasticism in both East and West who have much to teach about monastic values and their relevance for today, among them Antony, the "first monk," Augustine and Jerome, John Cassian, Brigit of Kildare and early Celtic monasticism, Gregory the Great, Benedict and Scholastica and, finally, Bernard of Clairvaux.
"By studying the history of monasticism and its great heroes we come to realize that, for the Christian, much of what we call `monastic' is purely and simply what being a follower of Christ is all about, and that being a monk, whether inside monastic enclosures or outside `in the world,' is simply becoming the sort of person everyone ought to be, a person who unites action and contemplation in the care of souls," writes the author.
By becoming familiar with the stories and thought of these inspirational figures, readers will be inspired to incorporate monastic perspectives and values into their own lives.
Customer Reviews:
One of the best books I've ever read.July 1, 2008 This book is absolutely wonderful. The title caught my attention, and I hoped that the book would answer some of my questions about living a more contemplative life. A mixture of textbook and spiritual guide, this is a must read for ministers of any kind, and for those wishing to balance life in today's culture with a very prayerful interior life. I find that I am carrying the book around with me even though I've finished reading it, and have begun reading it again after only about a week. Very simply, I highly recommend this book!
Spiritual HistoryJune 29, 2008 0 out of 1 found this review helpful
An entertaining and well researched history of Western Monasticism traced though the spiritualities and personalities of its leading figures. On a minor discordant note: Be prepared for some preachy interludes about empowering the laity, including (and ordaining?) women in church leadership and a puzzling if only passsing reference to the Islamic world's justified suspicions of Christianity due to Bernard of Clairvaux's preaching the Second Crusade. The book does not describe modified monastic practices for the modern person living outside a monastery, but rather a spirituality for engaging the world.
Excellent readJune 24, 2008 FINDING THE MONK WITHIN - is an excellent read. For anyone wishing to get a good understanding of the history of monasticism, this book is for you. It is an interesting and easy read. I loved every minute of this book. Pam Nashville, TN
