Imitation of Christ

The Imitation of Christ by Thomas a Kempis, translated by William Bentham, 167 pages

The Imitation of Christ has been attributed to many authors, but the most likely source was the 15th century Rhineland monk Thomas of Kempen, an eager practitioner of the devotio moderna, a school of spirituality which placed an emphasis on the individual pursuit of holiness.  One of the great successes of the early years of printing, it is solidly established among the classics of Western spirituality.

The book is a devotional, encouraging reflection upon the relationship between God and man.  The reader is urged to recognize the transient nature of worldly desire and cling to the eternal joys of the spirit.  The only goal is increased intimacy with God through formation of the virtues, particularly humility.