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Saint Bernard of Clairvaux Byzantine icon, Cistercian mystic holding lilies in devotion and contemplative love of God

BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX · 12TH CENTURY · CISTERCIAN

Apology to William of St. Thierry


A spirited defense of Cistercian simplicity and austerity, written in contrast to the elaborate ornament of Cluniac monasticism.

Apology to William of St. Thierry is a central text in the Christian mystical tradition, offering insight into the spiritual life, the nature of divine union, and the transformation of the soul.