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Published in over 6,000 editions before the year 1900, The Imitation of Christ has been more widely read than any other book in human history except the Bible itself. It has been called the most influential work in Christian literature, a landmark in the history of the human mind, and the fifth gospel.
Now, and for the first time, comes an exhaustive edition of this classic work, a work that is bound to become a classic in its own right. Fr. John-Julian introduces Kempis and his Imitation in ways that will shock many who have read the book before. For example, Protestant devotees to the book may be astounded to discover that Thomas was not only a Roman Catholic but an ardent traditionalist contemplative monk as well. And devoted Catholic readers may be amazed to discover that he was a radical moral reformer and part of a group twice formally charged with heresy. Notes and introductions to every aspect of The Imitation open the meaning of this classic to the next generation of readers.
Thomas Kempis, C.R.S.A. (Thomas van Kempen or Thomas Hemerken or Haemerken, litt. Hammerkin (small hammer); c. 1380 - 25 July 1471) was a Dutch canon regular of the late medieval period and the author of The Imitation of Christ, one of the most popular and best known Christian books on devotion. His name means Thomas of Kempen, his hometown, and in German he is known as Thomas von Kempen. He also is known by various spellings of his family name: Thomas Haemerken; Thomas Hammerlein; Thomas Hemerken and Thomas H merken. (wikipedia.org)
The Imitation of Christ by Saint Thomas à Kempis is a timeless spiritual classic offering guidance on living a devout Christian life. Written in the 15th century, it explores themes of humility, piety and devotion to Christ. This enduring work continues to inspire readers to deepen their faith and pursue spiritual growth.
Centered on the inner life and spiritual growth, The Imitation of Christ invites readers to pursue humility, discipline, and a closer connection with God. Through reflective meditations and guidance on navigating life's trials, it emphasizes renouncing worldly desires in favor of inner peace and divine love. The book draws on wisdom from scripture and religious thought, urging readers to follow Christ's example in everyday actions and thoughts. Written in a contemplative style, it has inspired countless individuals to seek a path of virtue, simplicity, and spiritual fulfillment.
The Imitation of Christ has been one of the most influential Christian texts since its creation in the early 15th century, shaping the spiritual practices of countless individuals across cultures and generations. Revered for its profound simplicity and insight into the human soul, it bridged medieval monastic teachings with the personal devotion that became central in the Renaissance and Reformation eras. Its messages of humility, introspection, and following Christ's example resonated deeply with seekers of all backgrounds, inspiring religious reformers, saints, and laypeople alike. This enduring work continues to be celebrated not only as a masterpiece of Christian literature but also as a guide to living a life of inner peace and unwavering faith.
The Imitation of Christ has enjoyed an unparalleled place in the world of books for more than five hundred years. 5000 different editions have been published over the centuries, and it has been translated into almost every language in the world.
Why is this little book so valued? The Imitation of Christ transcends its era and author, having become a testament that speaks to the perennial human condition on the issues of our human relationship to God. It offers insight that is unparalleled in works before and since. The wisdom of Thomas a Kempis is for every age, for every person who seeks to live a more integrated spiritual life of seeking and finding, doing and being still.
Br. Benet Tvedten writes a new introduction for this special edition. He brings his trademark insight and humor to bear on the lessons of The Imitation of Christ for every generation.
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For nearly 2,000 years, Christian mystics, martyrs, and sages have documented their search for the divine. Their writings have bestowed boundless wisdom upon subsequent generations. But they have also burdened many spiritual seekers. The sheer volume of available material creates a seemingly insurmountable obstacle. Enter the Upper Room Spiritual Classics series, a collection of authoritative texts on Christian spirituality curated for the everyday reader. Designed to introduce 15 spiritual giants and the range of their works, these volumes are a first-rate resource for beginner and expert alike.
The Imitation of Christ by Thomas à Kempis has perhaps influenced Christian spirituality more than any other book except the Bible. From the time of its appearance around 1420, it has been a best seller. This volume includes accessible selections from this classic of Christian spirituality and Western literature.
Even the briefest of philosophical musing arrives at the conclusion that life is a passing vapor. When all is vanity, where can true meaning and enduring significance be found?
This timeless book cries out to a modern culture obsessed with knowledge yet mired in futility; it makes the case that truth can only be discovered in the footprints of Jesus.
An unassuming monk from the 15th century, Thomas à Kempis devoted his life to reading and teaching Scripture. He wrote The Imitation of Christ in the midst of his daily service as an instructor and copyist. Though his life was unremarkable, the persistence of this work through the centuries proves it's very point: there is nothing more powerful or enduring than a humble life, dedicated to the simple pursuit of Jesus.
No other historical work imparts the art of Christian discipleship so well as The Imitation of Christ. In the pages that follow, readers will discover...
This unassuming work has beckoned millions of readers across the centuries into a lifestyle of surrendered devotion, and thus into a legacy of true significance.
... all is vanity, save to love God, and Him only to serve. That is the highest wisdom, to cast the world behind us, and to reach forward to the heavenly kingdom.
A Christian devotional book dating to the early 15th century, The Imitation of Christ was originally written anonymously but popularly attributed to Thomas à Kempis. A beloved piece of religious literature since it was first circulated, the work is divided into four books that instruct the reader to care for the soul, follow Christ, seek internal consolation, and receive the sacrament of Communion, all to attain spiritual peace. Admired by Christian theologians and mystics over the centuries, it is today considered to be the most-read Christian devotional work besides the Bible. For all who seek the spiritual life, The Imitation of Christ is an essential and foundational work, to be read again and again.
This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.
This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.
Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.
This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.
Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.