Bernard of Clairvaux

NAME Bernard of Clairvaux

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Bernard of Clairvaux, often referred to as Saint Bernard, was a prominent medieval theologian, mystic, and reformer. He is renowned for his role in the Cistercian monastic movement, his influential writings on spirituality and theology, and his involvement in ecclesiastical and political affairs of his time.

BIRTH Bernard was born in Fontaine-lès-Dijon, Burgundy, France, in 1090.

FAMILY BACKGROUND  He was born into a noble family with ties to the Burgundian nobility. His father, Tescelin le Roux, was a knight and his mother, Aleth de Montbard, came from a family of knights. Bernard was the third of seven children, six of whom were sons

CHILDHOOD Bernard grew up in a privileged environment, surrounded by the comforts of nobility. He displayed piety and intellectual curiosity from a young age.

EDUCATION He received his early education from the local priests and then studied at the Collège de Chatillon in Dijon. Bernard developed a love for poetry and classical learning

CAREER RECORD At the age of 22, Bernard entered the Cistercian order, seeking a more austere and contemplative life. 

Christ Embracing St. Bernard by Francisco Ribalta

Here's his resume.

Founded Clairvaux Abbey on June 25, 1115, which became a prominent Cistercian monastery

Became a renowned preacher and spiritual leader

Played a key role in the expansion of the Cistercian Order

Mediated theological disputes and political conflicts

Advocated for Pope Innocent II during the papal schism

Championed the Second Crusade

APPEARANCE Bernard was described as having a commanding presence, with a tall and slender frame, piercing eyes, and a long beard.

FASHION As a monk, Bernard wore the simple and humble attire typical of the Cistercian order, consisting of a simple white tunic and hood.

CHARACTER Bernard was known for his deep piety, fervent devotion to God, and unwavering commitment to the Christian faith. He was also admired for his intellect, eloquence, and moral integrity.

SENSE OF HUMOUR While Bernard was serious and contemplative by nature, he occasionally displayed a subtle wit and humor in his writings and interactions.

RELATIONSHIPS Bernard had close relationships with fellow monks and religious figures, including his mentor, William of Champeaux, and his friend, William of St-Thierry. He also corresponded with many influential figures of his time, including popes, kings, and scholars.

MONEY AND FAME Bernard achieved immense fame throughout Europe for his preaching and leadership. Despite his prominence and influence, Bernard maintained a simple and humble lifestyle, eschewing personal wealth.

FOOD AND DRINK As a monk, Bernard adhered to a diet of simple and frugal fare, emphasizing moderation and self-denial.

MUSIC AND ARTS Bernard had a deep appreciation for sacred music and art, which he believed could elevate the soul and inspire devotion. He promoted a form of liturgical music that focused on spiritual contemplation

LITERATURE He was a prolific writer, producing numerous theological treatises, sermons, and letters, which had a significant impact on medieval spirituality and religious thought. His most famous work is the Sermons on the Song of Songs.

NATURE Bernard often found solace and inspiration in the beauty of nature, viewing it as a reflection of God's glory and wisdom.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS In his spare time, Bernard engaged in prayer, meditation, and spiritual exercises, considering them the highest pursuits of the Christian life.

SCIENCE AND MATHS While Bernard did not make significant contributions to science or mathematics, he valued reason and intellect as tools for understanding the mysteries of faith.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Bernard's theological writings explored themes of love, humility, and the mystical union with God. He emphasized the importance of personal piety and the interior life of the soul. Influenced by Augustine of Hippo and Bernard of Cluny, he developed a theology of love and devotion to the Virgin Mary. 

Bernard wasn't your typical saint-in-the-making. In his youth, he indulged in the usual temptations – a life less holy, shall we say. But a personal wake-up call, likely the death of his mother at 19, sent him down a different path. He ditched the fancy digs for the austere life of a Cistercian monk, trading riches for robes and a diet of boiled beechnuts and herbs (not exactly gourmet).

Three years later, Bernard got a promotion (of sorts). They shipped him off to the sticks – a secluded glen called "Wormwood Valley" – to establish a new monastery. Talk about a remote location!  He named it "Clear Valley" (Clairvaux eventually), and was joined by 27 friends and family, including four of his brothers. Not exactly the entourage he might have had in his previous life.

By the late 1120s, Clairvaux Abbey, under Bernard's leadership, became the crown jewel of the Cistercian order. His smooth-talking sermons and miracles drew pilgrims like moths to a flame.  However, some found his piety a bit overwhelming.  Apparently, Bernard was such a holy roller that even his fellow monks felt like sinners in his presence. A few minutes with him and you'd be re-evaluating your life choices.

But Bernard wasn't just about making people feel bad. By the mid-1100s, he'd become a major player in the Church. He championed a more personal faith, emphasizing devotion to the Virgin Mary as a bridge between humanity and Jesus. He wasn't a fan of "thinking monks" who used philosophy to understand faith, preferring blind obedience.

SCANDAL Bernard of Clairvaux's life was remarkably free of scandal. Unlike some medieval figures, he wasn't accused of any moral impropriety or misuse of power. His focus on religious reform and strict adherence to the Cistercian code likely contributed to this untarnished reputation.

MILITARY RECORD Bernard exerted considerable influence over secular rulers and participated in efforts to promote peace and reconciliation during times of conflict.

He also kickstarted a war – the Second Crusade. On March 31, 1146 at the command of the pope, Bernard of Clairvaux preached a sermon at Vézelay. It created a frenzy in Western Europe, swords were drawn and and recruits from northern France, Flanders and Germany signed up.to head to the Holy Land. Because nothing says "love thy neighbor" like a good old-fashioned crusade.

Saint Bernard preaching the second crusade in Vézelay by Émile Signol

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS The austere lifestyle of the Cistercians, with its emphasis on fasting and prayer, likely took a toll on Bernard's physical health. There are mentions of him suffering from ailments throughout his life. Despite his weakened condition, however, he remained active and influential well into his later years.

HOMES Clairvaux Abbey was founded on June 25, 1115, by Bernard, who was appointed by Abbot Stephen Harding of Cîteaux to lead a group of monks to establish a new monastery. The site chosen for the abbey was in the valley of Absinthe (Val d’Absinthe) in the Diocese of Langres, in present-day northeastern France.

The location was remote and marshy, presenting significant challenges to the founding monks. They had to clear the land, drain the marshes, and construct the necessary buildings for monastic life.

Under Bernard's guidance, Clairvaux Abbey became a model of Cistercian discipline and spirituality. Its reputation for piety and strict adherence to the Rule of St. Benedict attracted many novices.

Clairvaux became the mother house of numerous daughter monasteries. By the time of Bernard’s death in 1153, it had founded 68 monasteries directly, with many more in subsequent generations.

Clairvaux Abbey served as Bernard's primary residence for most of his adult life. He played a pivotal role in its founding and development, and it became the center of his religious activities and leadership.

The original abbey is now just a pile of rocks, but fear not, history buffs! The French government turned it into a prison – a high-security one, at that. I guess even hardened criminals need a reminder that they're sinners.

TRAVEL While Clairvaux remained his home base, Bernard undertook extensive travels throughout Europe. He was frequently called upon to mediate disputes, preach at major events, and participate in Church councils. His travels helped spread the influence of the Cistercian Order and establish him as a leading figure in European Christianity.

DEATH  Bernard passed away on August 20, 1153, aged 63, at Clairvaux Abbey. The exact cause of death is unknown, but it likely stemmed from the cumulative effects of a lifetime of austerity and his declining health. He was buried at the Clairvaux Abbey, but after its dissolution in 1792 by the French revolutionary government, his remains were transferred to the Troyes Cathedral.

Bernard was canonized by Pope Alexander III on January 18, 1174 as the first Cistercian saint. In 1830 Pope Pius VIII bestowed upon Bernard the title "Doctor of the Church".

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Due to his historical significance, Bernard of Clairvaux has been depicted in various forms of media throughout the centuries.

Paintings and sculptures: These portrayals can be found in churches, monasteries, and museums across Europe.

Literature: He appears as a character or is referenced in works of historical fiction and theological writings.

ACHIEVEMENTS Bernard's achievements encompass both religious and political spheres. Here's a summary of his key accomplishments:

Founding Clairvaux Abbey and serving as its abbot, making it a model for Cistercian monasteries.

Leading the Cistercian reform movement, which revitalized monastic life within the Benedictine tradition.

Establishing himself as a prominent theologian and preacher, influencing generations of Christians.

Playing a crucial role in Church politics, including advocating for Pope Innocent II during the papal schism and championing the Second Crusade.

Earning the title "Doctor Mellifluus" (Honey-tongued Doctor) for his eloquence and persuasive preaching.

Being canonized as a saint in 1174, a testament to his enduring legacy.