Of a Religious Life

Name: Of a Religious Life
Author: Thomas à Kempis

The work emphasizes the importance of self-mortification and humility for those living in a religious community. It highlights the challenges of maintaining harmony and faithfulness within such a setting, suggesting that true fulfillment comes from a life dedicated to God rather than worldly concerns. The text advocates for a transformation of character over superficial appearances, asserting that genuine religious life requires a deep commitment to serving others and embracing a humble position. The author discusses the necessity of enduring trials and laboring diligently, portraying the religious life as one of sacrifice rather than comfort. It stresses that seeking anything other than divine connection leads to sorrow and unrest. The call to be a servant and to adopt the mindset of an exile or pilgrim underscores the transient nature of earthly existence and the need for a focus on spiritual growth. The work serves as a guide for those aspiring to live a devout life, urging them to cultivate inner virtues and to embrace the hardships that come with such a commitment. It presents a vision of religious life that is rigorous and demanding, yet ultimately rewarding for those who persevere in their faith and strive for a deeper relationship with God. The text concludes with a reminder that true peace and stability are found in humility and selflessness, reinforcing the idea that the path to spiritual fulfillment is paved with challenges that test one's resolve and dedication.

By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1471 · Genre: Religious, Spirituality, Philosophy · 238 words

First lines

It behoveth thee to learn to mortify thyself in many things, if thou wilt live in amity and concord with other men. It is no small thing to dwell in a religious community or congregation, and to live there without complaint, and therein to remain faithful even unto death. Blessed is he who hath lived a good life in such a body, and brought it to a happy end. If thou wilt stand fast and wilt profit as thou oughtest, hold thyself as an exile and a pilgrim upon the earth. Thou wilt have to be counted as a fool for Christ, if thou wilt lead a religious life.

What this Textopian page supports

Of a Religious Life is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thomas à Kempis, dated 1471 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Essay
Author: Thomas à Kempis
Date: 1471 CE
Language: English
Genres: Religious, Spirituality, Philosophy, Devotional, Non-fiction
Length: 238 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Of a Religious Life by Thomas à Kempis
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
Readability and classroom-planning context
Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering Of a Religious Life?
How does this essay by Thomas à Kempis fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Religious first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Religious — The book focuses on the principles and practices of living a religious life, emphasizing spiritual growth and devotion.
Spirituality — It explores themes of inner transformation, humility, and the pursuit of a deeper connection with God.
Philosophy — The text presents philosophical reflections on the nature of life, self-mortification, and the human condition in relation to the divine.
Devotional — It serves as a guide for personal devotion and religious practice, encouraging readers to cultivate a pious life.