Of the Danger of too Much Familiarity

Name: Of the Danger of too Much Familiarity
Author: Thomas à Kempis

The text emphasizes the importance of discernment in choosing companions and the potential dangers of excessive familiarity. It advises against opening one's heart to everyone, advocating for relationships with those who are wise and God-fearing. The work suggests limiting interactions with the young and strangers, and warns against seeking the company of the wealthy or powerful, as such associations may lead to flatteries and superficial connections. Instead, it encourages forming bonds with the humble, simple, devout, and gentle individuals, focusing discussions on edifying topics. The text also highlights the need for caution in relationships with women, recommending a respectful distance and commending all good women to God rather than forming close ties. The author stresses that while love for all is essential, not everyone should be considered a close companion. Familiarity can lead to disillusionment, as one may find that a person admired from afar may not be as pleasing upon closer acquaintance. The work warns that attempts to please others through intimacy can backfire, revealing character flaws that may alienate rather than endear. Ultimately, the text advocates for a life guided by spiritual principles, prioritizing divine companionship over human relationships, and fostering a community that uplifts and edifies rather than one that leads to moral compromise or disappointment.

By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1904 · Genre: Spiritual/Religious, Philosophical, Self-Help · 178 words

First lines

Open not thine heart to every man, but deal with one who is wise and feareth God. Be seldom with the young and with strangers. Be not a flatterer of the rich; nor willingly seek the society of the great. Let thy company be the humble and the simple, the devout and the gentle, and let thy discourse be concerning things which edify. Be not familiar with any woman, but commend all good women alike unto God. Choose for thy companions God and His Angels only, and flee from the notice of men.

What this Textopian page supports

Of the Danger of too Much Familiarity is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thomas à Kempis, dated 1904 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: 1904 CE
Language: English
Genres: Spiritual/Religious, Philosophical, Self-Help, Ethical, Literary Non-Fiction
Length: 178 words
Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Of the Danger of too Much Familiarity 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 the Danger of too Much Familiarity?
How does this essay by Thomas à Kempis fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Spiritual/Religious first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Spiritual/Religious — The text emphasizes the importance of spiritual discernment in relationships and the pursuit of a devout life.
Philosophical — It explores themes of wisdom, virtue, and the nature of human companionship.
Self-Help — The work provides guidance on personal conduct and the selection of companions to foster a better life.
Ethical — It discusses moral considerations in choosing friends and the impact of familiarity on character.