Of Obedience and Subjection

Name: Of Obedience and Subjection
Author: Thomas à Kempis

The work emphasizes the significance of obedience and subjection as essential virtues for spiritual growth and inner peace. It argues that living under authority is safer and more beneficial than seeking autonomy. Many individuals comply with authority out of necessity rather than genuine love, leading to dissatisfaction and unrest. True freedom of spirit is achieved through heartfelt submission to divine will. The text highlights the futility of seeking peace through external changes or personal desires, asserting that true tranquility is found in humble obedience. It acknowledges the human tendency to favor personal opinions and those who share similar views, yet stresses the importance of yielding one's opinions for the sake of harmony, especially in the presence of Christ. The work advises against over-reliance on personal judgment, advocating for openness to the perspectives of others. It suggests that even good opinions may need to be set aside for the greater good, emphasizing that listening and receiving counsel is often safer than offering it. The refusal to consider others' viewpoints is portrayed as a sign of pride and obstinacy, underscoring the value of humility and the willingness to learn from others. Overall, the text serves as a guide to understanding the spiritual benefits of obedience, the importance of community, and the necessity of humility in the pursuit of a peaceful and fulfilling life.

By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1470 · Genre: Religious, Philosophical, Spiritual · 291 words

First lines

It is verily a great thing to live in obedience, to be under authority, and not to be at our own disposal. Far safer is it to live in subjection than in a place of authority. Many are in obedience from necessity rather than from love; these take it amiss, and repine for small cause. Nor will they gain freedom of spirit, unless with all their heart they submit themselves for the love of God. Though thou run hither and thither, thou wilt not find peace, save in humble subjection to the authority of him who is set over thee. Fancies about places and change of them have deceived many.

What this Textopian page supports

Of Obedience and Subjection is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thomas à Kempis, dated 1470 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: 1470 CE
Language: English
Genres: Religious, Philosophical, Spiritual, Self-help, Theological
Length: 291 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Religious — The text discusses themes of obedience, authority, and submission to God, central to religious teachings.
Philosophical — It explores the nature of obedience and the importance of humility and self-submission, reflecting philosophical inquiries into ethics and human behavior.
Spiritual — The work emphasizes spiritual growth through obedience and subjection, aligning with spiritual literature focused on personal development.
Self-help — It provides guidance on achieving peace and humility through obedience, akin to self-help literature that offers practical advice for personal improvement.