Famous monks come from various religious traditions and historical periods, known for their spiritual influence, teachings, and contributions to monastic life.
Notable Monks in Christianity and Western Tradition
- John Main (1926-1982): A Roman Catholic Benedictine monk known for promoting Christian meditation using a mantra.
- Richard of Wallingford (1292-1336): English mathematician, astronomer, and abbot.
- Joachim of Fiore (1135-1202): Italian theologian and founder of a monastic order.
- Benedict of Nursia (480-543): Founder of Western Christian monasticism, author of the influential "Rule of Saint Benedict."
- Thomas à Kempis (1380-1471): Author of "The Imitation of Christ," a widely read devotional book.
- St. Bernard of Clairvaux (1091-1153): Influential mystic and preacher in medieval Christianity.
- Others include St. Antony of the Desert, St. Pachomius, Abbot de Rancé among notable monastics who shaped monastic life and scholarship.
Prominent Buddhist Monks
- Siddhartha Gautama (The Buddha) : Founder of Buddhism and its most famous monk.
- Bodhidharma : Founder of Zen Buddhism, known for meditation teachings.
- Thich Nhat Hanh : Contemporary Zen master and peace activist.
- Dalai Lama : Spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism.
- Nagarjuna : Philosopher who greatly influenced Mahayana Buddhism.
- Mahakasyapa : An important disciple of Buddha.
- Milarepa : Famous Tibetan yogi and poet revered in Tibetan Buddhism.
- Additional notable monks include Xuanzang, Dogen, and Hsuan Hua.
Modern Influential Monks
- U Gambira : Burmese former monk and activist noted for leading protests against military rule in Burma.
These monks have made significant impacts through spiritual teachings, monastic reforms, philosophical contributions, and social activism in their respective traditions.
