Title: Of the Imitation of Christ
Author: Thomas à Kempis, Peacock, Mansfield & Brittan (illus)
ISBN: –
Publisher: James Parker & Co, date unknown. However, gift inscription on front flyleaf dates from 1872.
Condition: Hardcover, very thick and heavy padded leather. Embossed cross on cover. Hubbed spine. Front hinge slightly tender, but firmly bound. Very heavy. Very rare.
The Imitation of Christ (Latin: De Imitatione Christi) by Thomas à Kempis is a Christian devotional book. It was first composed in Latin ca. 1418-1427. It is a handbook for spiritual life arising from the Devotio Moderna movement, where Kempis was a member.
The Imitation is perhaps the most widely read devotional work next to the Bible, and is regarded as a devotional and religious classic. Apart from the Bible, no book has been translated into more languages than the Imitation of Christ.
The text is divided into four books, which provide detailed spiritual instructions: “Helpful Counsels of the Spiritual Life”, “Directives for the Interior Life”, “On Interior Consolation” and “On the Blessed Sacrament”.
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.