Thomas à Kempis
Biography
Thomas à Kempis (c. 1380–1471) was a German-Dutch canon regular and mystic, author of The Imitation of Christ, the most widely read Christian devotional work after the Bible. Born Thomas Hemerken in Kempen, near Düsseldorf, he entered the Augustinian monastery of Mount Saint Agnes near Zwolle in the Netherlands, where he spent over seventy years as a monk, writer, and copyist. His Imitation of Christ, composed around 1418–27, distills the spiritual ideals of the Devotio Moderna movement into a practical guide for the inner life. The work has been translated into more languages than any other book except the Bible.
Common themes in Thomas à Kempis's work
Christian devotion
A recurring theme throughout Thomas à Kempis's writing.
Mysticism
A recurring theme throughout Thomas à Kempis's writing.
Inner life
A recurring theme throughout Thomas à Kempis's writing.
Humility
A recurring theme throughout Thomas à Kempis's writing.
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Why Thomas à Kempis is still read today
The Imitation of Christ remains one of the most influential spiritual texts in human history. Its practical wisdom on the inner life, humility, and devotion continues to inspire readers across Christian traditions and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Thomas à Kempis?
Thomas à Kempis was a medieval monk who wrote The Imitation of Christ, the most widely read Christian devotional work after the Bible. Read it free on TextStack.
What is The Imitation of Christ?
A practical guide to the spiritual life emphasizing humility, detachment, and inner devotion, written around 1418–27.
Is The Imitation of Christ only for Christians?
While rooted in Christian tradition, its wisdom on the inner life, simplicity, and self-knowledge appeals to readers of many backgrounds.
Where can I read Thomas à Kempis online?
TextStack offers The Imitation of Christ free to read online.
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