Why Zen Buddhism and not Hinduism? The Asias of Thomas Merton's Voyages East.

The article examines why theologian Thomas Merton appeared more interested in Zen Buddhism than in Hinduism as evident in his Asian voyage. It explores Buddhism's non-doctrinal aspects, contemplativeness and stress on spiritual experience and awareness and ability to transform monks into persons of holiness. It looks into the effort of Merton to understand the Hindu treatise on the stilling of the mind, karma yoga, and the stages of life. It analyzes his feelings for image worship and caste.