Of the Imitation of Christ Selections

by Thomas à Kempis

Only one of many versions of this book originally written in a monastary in the 15th-century. It is believed Thomas translated the text from Dutch to Latin and the original may have been written by Gerard Groote. It is one of the first books ever set in type. It is a spiritual meditation classic to Western religious ideals.

63 pages, Hardback

Published January 1, 1968

About the author

Thomas Hammerken (or Hammerlein -- both mean "little hammer") / Thomas de Kempis / Thomas Hamerken von Kempen was born at Kempen (hence the "A Kempis") in the duchy of Cleves in Germany around 1380. He was educated by a religious order called the Brethren of the Common Life, and in due course joined the order, was ordained a priest, became sub-prior of his house (in the low Countries), and died 25 July 1471 (his feast is observed a day early to avoid conflict with that of James bar-Zebedee the Apostle).

Thomas is known almost entirely for composing or compiling a manual of spiritual advice known as The Imitation of Christ, in which he urges the reader to seek to follow the example of Jesus Christ and to be conformed in all things to His will.

Reviews

[Frank · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a classic one reads over and over. Some people read a little from it everyday. This is a little book that really helps one imitate Christ. I've heard this is the greatest selling book next to the Bible.

[Alice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz said "blessed is he," "who not only reads this book, but puts it into practice." Amen.