The Imitation of Christ

The Imitation of Christ by Thomas à Kempis is a Christian devotional book. It was first composed in Latin ca.1418-1427. The Imitation is perhaps the most widely read devotional work next to the Bible, and is regarded as a devotional and religious classic. Its popularity was immediate, and it was printed 745 times before 1650. Apart from the Bible, no book has been translated into more languages than the Imitation of Christ. The approach taken in the Imitation is characterized by its emphasis on the interior life and withdrawal from the world, as opposed to an active imitation of Christ by other friars. With its simple, readable text, this translation will appeal to new readers as well as to those already familiar with this religious classic.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Thomas à Kempis was born at Kempen, Germany in 1380. He attended Deventer in the Netherlands where he eventually joined the Canons and was later ordained as a priest. His most well-known work is the Imitation of Christ. It has been acclaimed as one of the greatest spiritual writings of all time. For some time there was some dispute as to the title's authorship. He died July 25, 1471.