Thomas Merton considered himself a contemplative and he was one. For almost thirty years he lived a contemplative life and had experiences that could be considered contemplative. He interpreted his life in relation to contemplation; he also deepened and developed the meaning of this concept in the light of personal experiences, historical changes taking place in the world at large, readings, and written reflections. This article argues that, firstly, contemplation was the central theme of

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... 's life and writings and, secondly, Merton revived the presence and the value of contemplation in the modern culture of the West.