Originally published in 1908, this book presents an English translation of The Imitation of Christ by Thomas a Kempis (c.1380 1471), one of the most well-known Christian books of devotion. It will be of value to anyone with an interest in the writings of Kempis and the history of Christianity."

Thomas Hammerlein was born in Kempen, North Germany, some six hundred years ago. He took the cowl at the age of twenty, entering the monastery of St Agnes where, now known as Thomas a Kempis ('Thomas from Kempen'), he spent the remaining seventy years of his life. It was in this secluded environment that he wrote his devotional classic 'The Imitation of Christ' which had its origins in a Dutch lay religious society, the Brethren of Common Life. Respected equally by Christians of all denominations, the work is divided into four 'Books': on the spiritual life, on the interior life, inward...

The Imitation of Christ by Thomas a 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.

One of the best-loved books of Christianity after the Bible, now in a new translation

A passionate celebration of God and his love, mercy, and holiness, The Imitation of Christ has inspired conversion and stimulated religious devotion for more than five hundred years. With great personal conviction, the medieval monk Thomas a Kempis demonstrates the individual's reliance on God and on the words of Christ, and the futility of life without faith. Thomas spent some seventy years of his life in the reclusive environment of monasteries, yet in this astonishing work he...