Identity elements
Reference code
Name and location of repository
Level of description
Title
Date(s)
- 1963 April 4 (Creation)
Extent
2 page(s); Typed signed letter with holograph (handwritten) annotations.
Name of creator
Biographical history
Living in Karachi, Pakistan, Abdul Aziz can be attributed with sparking Merton's first interest in Sufism, an interest later shared with his novices at Gethsemani. Beginning their correspondence in late 1960, Merton and Aziz would exchange books and ideas. Aziz was introduced to Merton's work through Louis Massignon, a mutual friend. An important insight from these letters is Merton's response to Aziz's request for a description of his prayer life.
Content and structure elements
Scope and content
First lines: "I am in receipt of your letter dated the 26th December, 1962 received by me in the first week of"... Contents index: Merton's distinction between "exterior renunciation" and "interior detachment" / Islamic beliefs / John of the Cross / «Way of the Pilgrim».
System of arrangement
Conditions of access and use elements
Conditions governing access
Technical access
Conditions governing reproduction
Languages of the material
- English