Of not Troubling ourselves about Outward Things

Name: Of not Troubling ourselves about Outward Things
Author: Thomas à Kempis

The text emphasizes the importance of detachment from worldly concerns and the pursuit of inner peace. It advocates for a mindset that prioritizes spiritual over material matters, urging individuals to view themselves as separate from the distractions of the world. The author suggests that ignorance of certain external affairs can be beneficial, allowing one to focus on what truly matters for spiritual well-being. The work critiques the tendency to mourn temporary losses while neglecting spiritual growth. It highlights the irony of investing energy in trivial gains while overlooking essential spiritual needs. The call to turn away from strife and to maintain a focus on divine judgment is central, suggesting that true strength lies in accepting one's position before God rather than engaging in worldly disputes. The text encourages readers to cultivate a sense of peace by disregarding the opinions and judgments of others, advocating for a life led by divine principles rather than societal expectations. It warns against the dangers of becoming too absorbed in external affairs, which can lead to spiritual neglect. The overarching message is a call to prioritize the inner life, fostering a deeper connection with the divine and a more profound understanding of one's purpose beyond the material realm.

By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1940 · Genre: Spirituality, Philosophy, Religious · 205 words

First lines

"My Son, in many things it behoveth thee to be ignorant, and to esteem thyself as one dead upon the earth, and as one to whom the whole world is crucified. Many things also thou must pass by with deaf ear, and must rather think upon those things which belong unto thy peace. It is more profitable to turn away thine eyes from those things that displease, and to leave each man to his own opinion, than to give thyself to discourses of strife. If thou stand well with God and hast His judgment in thy mind, thou wilt verily easily bear to be as one conquered."

What this Textopian page supports

Of not Troubling ourselves about Outward Things is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thomas à Kempis, dated 1940 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: 1940 CE
Language: English
Genres: Spirituality, Philosophy, Religious, Self-help, Meditation
Length: 205 words
Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Of not Troubling ourselves about Outward Things 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 not Troubling ourselves about Outward Things?
How does this essay by Thomas à Kempis fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Spirituality first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Spirituality — The text focuses on inner peace and the importance of spiritual over material concerns.
Philosophy — It presents philosophical reflections on existence, detachment, and the nature of true value.
Religious — The work is rooted in Christian teachings and emphasizes a relationship with God.
Self-help — It offers guidance on personal development and prioritizing spiritual well-being.