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St. Bernard of Clairvaux (1090–1153) was a French abbot, mystic, and leading figure in the Cistercian reform movement. Born into a noble family in Burgundy, he entered the monastery of Cîteaux around 1112 (age 22), bringing with him some thirty companions, including several of his brothers. In 1115, he was sent to found a new monastery at Clairvaux, where his spiritual leadership, eloquence, and strict discipline made it a model of Cistercian life and the motherhouse of many daughter abbeys.Bernard became one of the most influential churchmen of the 12th century: he preached the Second Crusade at the pope’s request, mediated theological and political disputes, and advised popes, bishops, and kings. His writings—especially his sermons on the Song of Songs—emphasize divine love and devotion to the Virgin Mary, earning him the title Doctor Mellifluus (“Honey-Sweet Doctor”). Renowned for his asceticism, charisma, and theological insight, Bernard left a lasting imprint on Western spirituality and Christian mysticism.