The Imitation of Christ

The Imitation of Christ - Thomas Kempis - Translated by Rev. William Benham - The Imitation of Christ is a Christian devotional book. It was first composed in Latin ca. 1418-1427. It is a handbook for spiritual life arising from the Devotio Moderna movement, of which Kempis was a member. The Imitation is perhaps the most widely read devotional work next to the Bible, and is regarded as a devotional and religious classic. Its popularity was immediate, and it was printed 745 times before 1650. Apart from the Bible, no book has been translated into more languages than the Imitation of Christ. The treatise "Of the Imitation of Christ" appears to have been originally written in Latin early in the fifteenth century. Its exact date and its authorship are still a matter of debate. Manuscripts of the Latin version survive in considerable numbers all over Western Europe, and they, with the vast list of translations and of printed editions, testify to its almost unparalleled popularity. One scribe attributes it to St. Bernard of Clairvaux; but the fact that it contains a quotation from St. Francis of Assisi, who was born thirty years after the death of St. Bernard, disposes of this theory. In England there exist many manuscripts of the first three books, called "Musica Ecclesiastica," frequently ascribed to the English mystic Walter Hilton. But Hilton seems to have died in 1395, and there is no evidence of the existence of the work before 1400. Many manuscripts scattered throughout Europe ascribe the book to Jean le Charlier de Gerson, the great Chancellor of the University of Paris, who was a leading figure in the Church in the earlier part of the fifteenth century. The most probable author, however, especially when the internal evidence is considered, is Thomas Haemmerlein, known also as Thomas a Kempis, from his native town of Kempen, near the Rhine, about forty miles north of Cologne. Haemmerlein, who was born in 1379 or 1380, was a member of the order of the Brothers of Common Life, and spent the last seventy years of his life at Mount St. Agnes, a monastery of Augustinian canons in the diocese of Utrecht. Here he died on July 26, 1471, after an uneventful life spent in copying manuscripts, reading, and composing, and in the peaceful routine of monastic piety.

The Imitation of Christ - Thomas Kempis - Translated by Rev. William Benham - The Imitation of Christ is a Christian devotional book. It was first composed in Latin ca. 1418-1427. It is a handbook for spiritual life arising from the Devotio Moderna movement, of which Kempis was a member. The Imitation is perhaps the most widely read devotional work next to the Bible, and is regarded as a devotional and religious classic. Its popularity was immediate, and it was printed 745 times before 1650. Apart from the Bible, no book has been translated into more languages than the Imitation of Christ. The treatise "Of the Imitation of Christ" appears to have been originally written in Latin early in the fifteenth century. Its exact date and its authorship are still a matter of debate. Manuscripts of the Latin version survive in considerable numbers all over Western Europe, and they, with the vast list of translations and of printed editions, testify to its almost unparalleled popularity. One scribe attributes it to St. Bernard of Clairvaux; but the fact that it contains a quotation from St. Francis of Assisi, who was born thirty years after the death of St. Bernard, disposes of this theory. In England there exist many manuscripts of the first three books, called "Musica Ecclesiastica," frequently ascribed to the English mystic Walter Hilton. But Hilton seems to have died in 1395, and there is no evidence of the existence of the work before 1400. Many manuscripts scattered throughout Europe ascribe the book to Jean le Charlier de Gerson, the great Chancellor of the University of Paris, who was a leading figure in the Church in the earlier part of the fifteenth century. The most probable author, however, especially when the internal evidence is considered, is Thomas Haemmerlein, known also as Thomas a Kempis, from his native town of Kempen, near the Rhine, about forty miles north of Cologne. Haemmerlein, who was born in 1379 or 1380, was a member of the order of the Brothers of Common Life, and spent the last seventy years of his life at Mount St. Agnes, a monastery of Augustinian canons in the diocese of Utrecht. Here he died on July 26, 1471, after an uneventful life spent in copying manuscripts, reading, and composing, and in the peaceful routine of monastic piety.

15th-century Dutch priest Thomas a Kempis is best known for his famous Christian devotional book, "The Imitation of Christ". Influenced by the era of Devotio Moderna, or Modern Devotion, a movement of religious reform which called for a return to the Christian principles of humility, obedience, and simplicity of life, Kempis intended his work to help further this reform. Arguably the most famous of all Christian devotional works next to the Bible, "The Imitation of Christ" is divided into four sections: "Admonitions Profitable for the Spiritual Life", "Admonitions Concerning the Inner Life", "On Inward Consolation", and "Of the Sacrament of the Altar". Immensely popular from its first publication in 1418 up through the Protestant Reformation, the work's primary emphasis is on the interior life and withdrawal from the world. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper and follows the translation of William Benham.

15th-century Dutch priest Thomas a Kempis is best known for his famous Christian devotional book, "The Imitation of Christ". Influenced by the era of Devotio Moderna, or Modern Devotion, a movement of religious reform which called for a return to the Christian principles of humility, obedience, and simplicity of life, Kempis intended his work to help further this reform. Arguably the most famous of all Christian devotional works next to the Bible, "The Imitation of Christ" is divided into four sections: "Admonitions Profitable for the Spiritual Life", "Admonitions Concerning the Inner Life", "On Inward Consolation", and "Of the Sacrament of the Altar". Immensely popular from its first publication in 1418 up through the Protestant Reformation, the work's primary emphasis is on the interior life and withdrawal from the world. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper and follows the translation of William Benham.

One of the most influential and well-loved books of Christianity, The Imitation of Christ by Thomas à Kempis appears here in Penguin Classics in a new translation by Robert Jeffery, with an introduction by Max Von Habsburg, notes, a chronology and further reading. The Imitation of Christ is a passionate celebration of God's love, mercy and holiness, which has stimulated religious devotion for over five hundred years. With great personal conviction and deep humanity, Thomas à Kempis (1380-1471) demonstrates the individual's reliance on God and on the words of Christ, and the futility of a life without faith, as well as exploring the ideas such as humility, compassion, patience and tolerance. Thomas spent some seventy years of his life in the reclusive environment of monasteries, yet in this astonishing work he demonstrates an encompassing understanding of human nature, while his writing speaks to readers of every age and every nation. Thomas à Kempis was born at Kempen near Dusseldorf in 1380. He received the priesthood in 1413. Thomas wrote many other devotional works besides The Imitation of Christ , his masterpiece, as well as biographies of Gerald Groote and Florentius Radewyn. He died in 1471. The Very Revd Robert Jeffery was born in 1935 and ordained in 1959. He has written on matters of Church history, spirituality, mission and ecumenism. In 1978, he became Archdeacon of Salop, and was Dean of Worcester from 1987-96 and subsequently Canon and Sub-Dean of Christ Church, Oxford. He retired in 2002 and is an Hon Doctor of Divinity of Birmingham University. Max von Habsburg is the author of Catholic and Protestant Translations of the Imitatio Christi 1425-1650 (2011).

One of the most influential and well-loved books of Christianity, The Imitation of Christ by Thomas à Kempis appears here in Penguin Classics in a new translation by Robert Jeffery, with an introduction by Max Von Habsburg, notes, a chronology and further reading. The Imitation of Christ is a passionate celebration of God's love, mercy and holiness, which has stimulated religious devotion for over five hundred years. With great personal conviction and deep humanity, Thomas à Kempis (1380-1471) demonstrates the individual's reliance on God and on the words of Christ, and the futility of a life without faith, as well as exploring the ideas such as humility, compassion, patience and tolerance. Thomas spent some seventy years of his life in the reclusive environment of monasteries, yet in this astonishing work he demonstrates an encompassing understanding of human nature, while his writing speaks to readers of every age and every nation. Thomas à Kempis was born at Kempen near Dusseldorf in 1380. He received the priesthood in 1413. Thomas wrote many other devotional works besides The Imitation of Christ , his masterpiece, as well as biographies of Gerald Groote and Florentius Radewyn. He died in 1471. The Very Revd Robert Jeffery was born in 1935 and ordained in 1959. He has written on matters of Church history, spirituality, mission and ecumenism. In 1978, he became Archdeacon of Salop, and was Dean of Worcester from 1987-96 and subsequently Canon and Sub-Dean of Christ Church, Oxford. He retired in 2002 and is an Hon Doctor of Divinity of Birmingham University. Max von Habsburg is the author of Catholic and Protestant Translations of the Imitatio Christi 1425-1650 (2011).

The Imitation of Christ 978 -0-89942-320-3 The Imitation of Christ , a deeply spiritual book by Thomas ? Kempis, is the one book second only to the Bible in popularity among Catholics. Throughout this book, readers will find themselves experiencing the peace and wisdom that has comforted believers from all corners of the world. The pages of this consoling guide show readers how better to live the life of a Christian by closely following Christ's example. The Imitation of Christ will help to enable those seeking guidance in the midst of today's challenges to find encouragement to imitate Christ in many of life's situations. Among the Features of this Book: Sturdy Hardcover Convenient size for nightstand, office or handbag Illustrations Throughout of Jesus Multi-color illustrations of The Holy Rosary Convenient size for nightstand, office or handbag Faithfully Translated Divided into Four Books or Sections Visit our website www.catholicbookpublishing.com for more Catholic resources to strengthen your faith. Benefits of a small, pocket-sized book, tailored to its compact nature: Portability : Its lightweight, slim design slips easily into a pocket, purse, or bag, making it a constant companion for commutes, waiting rooms, or travel--perfect for a quick read, like a parable or prayer, anytime inspiration strikes. Convenience : The small size encourages spontaneous use. Whether it's a collection of Jesus' miracles or short reflections, you can flip it open with one hand during a coffee break, maximizing idle moments without needing a dedicated setup. Focus : Limited page space distills content to essentials--say, a single miracle or life lesson per chapter. This brevity sharpens attention, offering bite-sized wisdom that's easy to digest and ponder in a busy day. Discretion : Its unobtrusive size lets you read privately in public spaces, like a bus or park bench, without drawing attention. A pocket book of faith, for instance, becomes a quiet source of comfort or strength. Affordability : Smaller books typically cost less to produce and buy, making them an accessible gift or personal treat. A family might share a stack of them--each exploring a different miracle--without breaking the bank. These qualities make a pocket-sized book a practical, powerful tool for enrichment on the go. The Imitation of Christ by Thomas ? Kempis, a 15th-century devotional classic, holds profound importance for its timeless call to spiritual depth and humility. Written for monks but embraced by laypeople, this concise yet potent work urges readers to emulate Jesus' life--his patience, self-denial, and love--over worldly pursuits. Its enduring relevance lies in its simplicity and universality, offering practical wisdom amid life's complexities. The book's core message is transformative: true peace comes from surrendering pride and aligning with Christ's example. Kempis writes, "Learn to despise outward things and to give yourself to inward things, and you will see the Kingdom of God come within you." This shift from ego to soul resonates across centuries, especially in today's materialistic culture, where distractions abound. Structured in short, meditative chapters, it invites daily reflection--perfect for a pocket-sized companion--guiding readers through trials like adversity or temptation with grace. Its influence spans denominations, shaping figures like Ignatius of Loyola and John Wesley, and its accessibility ensures anyone can grasp its call to holiness. For families or individuals, it's a quiet anchor, fostering virtues like compassion and resilience. By imitating Christ, Kempis argues, we find purpose beyond fleeting success--a message as vital in 2026 as in 1418.

The Imitation of Christ 978 -0-89942-320-3 The Imitation of Christ , a deeply spiritual book by Thomas ? Kempis, is the one book second only to the Bible in popularity among Catholics. Throughout this book, readers will find themselves experiencing the peace and wisdom that has comforted believers from all corners of the world. The pages of this consoling guide show readers how better to live the life of a Christian by closely following Christ's example. The Imitation of Christ will help to enable those seeking guidance in the midst of today's challenges to find encouragement to imitate Christ in many of life's situations. Among the Features of this Book: Sturdy Hardcover Convenient size for nightstand, office or handbag Illustrations Throughout of Jesus Multi-color illustrations of The Holy Rosary Convenient size for nightstand, office or handbag Faithfully Translated Divided into Four Books or Sections Visit our website www.catholicbookpublishing.com for more Catholic resources to strengthen your faith. Benefits of a small, pocket-sized book, tailored to its compact nature: Portability : Its lightweight, slim design slips easily into a pocket, purse, or bag, making it a constant companion for commutes, waiting rooms, or travel--perfect for a quick read, like a parable or prayer, anytime inspiration strikes. Convenience : The small size encourages spontaneous use. Whether it's a collection of Jesus' miracles or short reflections, you can flip it open with one hand during a coffee break, maximizing idle moments without needing a dedicated setup. Focus : Limited page space distills content to essentials--say, a single miracle or life lesson per chapter. This brevity sharpens attention, offering bite-sized wisdom that's easy to digest and ponder in a busy day. Discretion : Its unobtrusive size lets you read privately in public spaces, like a bus or park bench, without drawing attention. A pocket book of faith, for instance, becomes a quiet source of comfort or strength. Affordability : Smaller books typically cost less to produce and buy, making them an accessible gift or personal treat. A family might share a stack of them--each exploring a different miracle--without breaking the bank. These qualities make a pocket-sized book a practical, powerful tool for enrichment on the go. The Imitation of Christ by Thomas ? Kempis, a 15th-century devotional classic, holds profound importance for its timeless call to spiritual depth and humility. Written for monks but embraced by laypeople, this concise yet potent work urges readers to emulate Jesus' life--his patience, self-denial, and love--over worldly pursuits. Its enduring relevance lies in its simplicity and universality, offering practical wisdom amid life's complexities. The book's core message is transformative: true peace comes from surrendering pride and aligning with Christ's example. Kempis writes, "Learn to despise outward things and to give yourself to inward things, and you will see the Kingdom of God come within you." This shift from ego to soul resonates across centuries, especially in today's materialistic culture, where distractions abound. Structured in short, meditative chapters, it invites daily reflection--perfect for a pocket-sized companion--guiding readers through trials like adversity or temptation with grace. Its influence spans denominations, shaping figures like Ignatius of Loyola and John Wesley, and its accessibility ensures anyone can grasp its call to holiness. For families or individuals, it's a quiet anchor, fostering virtues like compassion and resilience. By imitating Christ, Kempis argues, we find purpose beyond fleeting success--a message as vital in 2026 as in 1418.

Let Jesus's example of holiness, humility and purity of heart be a companion on your own spiritual journey. Next to the Bible, The Imitation of Christ is the most widely read devotional work within the Christian community. Thought to be compiled by fifteenth-century cleric Thomas Kempis (c. 1380-1471), this spiritual classic focuses the contemporary God-seeker on a religion of the heart--a vital connection with God in our innermost being. It advocates the cultivation of virtues, like humility and purity of intention, by inviting the spirit of Jesus to dwell richly in our lives. It emphasizes the need to translate that life of love into daily action. Now you can experience the timeless wisdom of this spiritual classic with no previous knowledge of late medieval Christianity. This SkyLight Illuminations edition, based on John Wesley's popular 1741 abridgment, renders these meditations on the life and teachings of Jesus in a way that is accessible to the contemporary reader. A substantive introduction and facing-page commentary places the work in its original context; clarifies the text's roots in the Bible, the early Church, and medieval mysticism; and explains its influence--spanning five hundred years--on spiritual luminaries from saints to popes and its continuing significance today.

Let Jesus's example of holiness, humility and purity of heart be a companion on your own spiritual journey. Next to the Bible, The Imitation of Christ is the most widely read devotional work within the Christian community. Thought to be compiled by fifteenth-century cleric Thomas Kempis (c. 1380-1471), this spiritual classic focuses the contemporary God-seeker on a religion of the heart--a vital connection with God in our innermost being. It advocates the cultivation of virtues, like humility and purity of intention, by inviting the spirit of Jesus to dwell richly in our lives. It emphasizes the need to translate that life of love into daily action. Now you can experience the timeless wisdom of this spiritual classic with no previous knowledge of late medieval Christianity. This SkyLight Illuminations edition, based on John Wesley's popular 1741 abridgment, renders these meditations on the life and teachings of Jesus in a way that is accessible to the contemporary reader. A substantive introduction and facing-page commentary places the work in its original context; clarifies the text's roots in the Bible, the early Church, and medieval mysticism; and explains its influence--spanning five hundred years--on spiritual luminaries from saints to popes and its continuing significance today.

The Imitation of Christ by Thomas Kempis is the most widely read Christian devotional book next to the Bible. It was written in Latin five hundred years ago and now brings comfort to millions of readers in over fifty languages. The Imitation is based on meditations on the life and teachings of Jesus, and emphasises the interior life and the centrality of the Eucharist rather than an active imitation of Christ. This version has an index of Biblical references, an index of names and an index of subjects. "Be not angry that you cannot make others as you wish them to be, since you cannot make yourself as you wish to be." Thomas Kempis, The Imitation of Christ

The late fourteenth century witnessed the beginning of a new spiritual movement. This movement, as Church historian Henri Daniel-Rops has described, was animated by a desire "for a humble, simple life, soundly based upon discipline and temperate habits," and its rule of life has been enshrined in this timeless masterpiece: The Imitation of Christ. Spiritual inspiration and sustenance for such saints as Ignatius of Loyola, Thomas More, and Thérèse of Lisieux and second only to the Bible as devotional reading, The Imitation has been translated innumerable times from the original Latin into practically every language of the world. This translation, begun by Monsignor Ronald Knox and completed (by express wish of Knox himself) by Michael Oakley following Knox's death in 1957, captures the "frill-lessness" and crisp candor of the original. From beginning to end, the Knox-Oakley translation confirms the power of The Imitation of Christ to inspire all Christians to take up their cross and become more like unto Christ-and thus more like unto their own true selves.

The late fourteenth century witnessed the beginning of a new spiritual movement. This movement, as Church historian Henri Daniel-Rops has described, was animated by a desire "for a humble, simple life, soundly based upon discipline and temperate habits," and its rule of life has been enshrined in this timeless masterpiece: The Imitation of Christ . Spiritual inspiration and sustenance for such saints as Ignatius of Loyola, Thomas More, and Th?r?se of Lisieux and second only to the Bible as devotional reading, The Imitation has been translated innumerable times from the original Latin into practically every language of the world. This translation, begun by Monsignor Ronald Knox and completed (by express wish of Knox himself) by Michael Oakley following Knox's death in 1957, captures the "frill-lessness" and crisp candor of the original. From beginning to end, the Knox-Oakley translation confirms the power of The Imitation of Christ to inspire all Christians to take up their cross and become more like unto Christ-and thus more like unto their own true selves.