Thomas à Kempis, born Thomas Hemerken in 1380 in Kempen, Germany (then part of the Holy Roman Empire), was a medieval canon regular and influential Christian writer. He dedicated his life to monastic scholarship and spiritual guidance, authoring several devotional works, with his masterpiece, “The Imitation of Christ,” standing out as one of the most read Christian texts after the Bible. This book, written around 1420, offers timeless insights into living a godly life, emphasizing humility, self-examination, and divine love. His career highlights include his role in the Congregation of Windesheim and his profound impact on Christian mysticism, influencing figures from Thomas More to Ignatius of Loyola. The quotes featured here are sourced primarily from his books, particularly “The Imitation of Christ,” as historical records provide no interviews or social media. Below is a curated list of 15 quotes by Thomas à Kempis that explore themes of life, offering wisdom on its challenges, joys, and spiritual depth.
15 Thomas à Kempis Quotes
1. “Man proposes, but God disposes.” (Book, “The Imitation of Christ,” c.1420)
2. “Be not angry that you cannot make others as you wish them to be, since you cannot make yourself as you wish to be.” (Book, “The Imitation of Christ,” c.1420)
3. “The good life is not lived in ease and pleasure, but in noble deeds and the pursuit of virtue.” (Book, “The Imitation of Christ,” c.1420)
4. “He that loves to be flattered is unworthy of true love.” (Book, “The Imitation of Christ,” c.1420)
5. “Without the way, there is no going; without the truth, there is no knowing; without the life, there is no living.” (Book, “The Imitation of Christ,” c.1420)
6. “The cross, therefore, is always ready; it awaits you everywhere.” (Book, “The Imitation of Christ,” c.1420)
7. “Be thankful for the least gift, and thou shalt be worthy to receive greater.” (Book, “The Imitation of Christ,” c.1420)
8. “He who knows himself well becomes mean in his own eyes and is not happy when praised by men.” (Book, “The Imitation of Christ,” c.1420)
9. “Trust not in thyself, but put thy trust in God.” (Book, “The Imitation of Christ,” c.1420)
10. “In all things consider the end; how wilt thou stand before the strict Judge, from whom nothing is hid?” (Book, “The Imitation of Christ,” c.1420)
11. “The acknowledgment of our weakness is the first step in repairing our loss.” (Book, “The Imitation of Christ,” c.1420)
12. “Strive as earnestly as you can to be always pleasing to God, and to be pleasing to men only so far as God is pleased.” (Book, “The Imitation of Christ,” c.1420)
13. “He that seeketh aught save God and the health of his soul, shall find only tribulation and sorrow.” (Book, “The Imitation of Christ,” c.1420)
14. “Be ofttimes mindful of the saying, The eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear with hearing.” (Book, “The Imitation of Christ,” c.1420)
15. “If thou wilt receive profit, read with humility, simplicity, and faith; and seek not at any time the fame of being learned.” (Book, “The Imitation of Christ,” c.1420)
These quotes from Thomas à Kempis reveal a profound understanding of life’s complexities, stressing the importance of humility, divine reliance, and inner peace amid trials. They showcase his view that true fulfillment comes not from worldly pursuits but from a deep, spiritual connection and self-awareness. In a world often filled with distractions, his words remind us to focus on what endures. What insights do these quotes spark for you? Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments below.