The Imitation of Christ
Written in the early fifteenth century and attributed to Thomas a Kempis, The Imitation of Christ is one of the most widely read Christian devotional books. It is organized as a series of short reflections and counsels that urge the reader toward humility, detachment from worldly concerns, self-examination, and a quiet interior life centered on Christ. The text favors simple, direct spiritual instruction over theological argument, and it has shaped private devotion across many traditions for centuries. Translated into countless languages, it remains a standard work of Christian spirituality, read by laypeople and clergy alike for its emphasis on inward conversion rather than outward show, and many readers return to its short chapters again and again for daily reflection.
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A classic Christian devotional guide that calls readers toward humility, inner life, and following the example of Christ.
It dates to the early fifteenth century and is traditionally attributed to Thomas a Kempis.
It emphasizes humility, inner conversion, and following the example of Christ over outward religious display.
The Imitation of Christ was written by Thomas a Kempis, published in 1769 by Kegan Paul [et al..
The Imitation of Christ is 287 pages in standard print editions, though page counts vary slightly between hardcover, paperback, and large-print formats.
At an average reading pace of about 250 words per minute, The Imitation of Christ takes most readers 4 to 6 hours to finish.
The Imitation of Christ is available in hardcover, paperback, ebook, and audiobook formats from Amazon, Bookshop.org, ThriftBooks, and most major bookstores.