Of the Exaltation of a Free Spirit, which Humble
The work presents a profound exploration of the relationship between the soul and the divine, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a focus on spiritual matters over worldly distractions. It articulates a prayerful plea for divine assistance in overcoming the burdens of earthly existence, which can entrap the spirit and hinder its ascent toward heavenly aspirations. The text begins with a call for the preservation of a free mind, one that is not overly attached to material concerns or pleasures. It acknowledges the inherent struggles of human life, including the physical needs that can lead to spiritual entanglement. The author seeks liberation from these distractions, recognizing that they can weigh down the soul and prevent it from achieving true freedom. A significant theme is the contrast between transient worldly pleasures and the enduring love of the divine. The author implores God to transform earthly comforts into sources of bitterness, thereby redirecting the heart toward eternal values. This reflects a desire for spiritual fortitude, urging the reader to resist the allure of the flesh and the deceptive nature of worldly glory. The work also addresses the necessity of physical sustenance, advocating for moderation rather than complete renunciation. It acknowledges the need for basic provisions while cautioning against excessive desires that can lead to spiritual complacency. The author emphasizes the importance of divine guidance in navigating these needs, seeking a balance that honors both the body and the spirit. Throughout the text, there is a deep yearning for the presence of the Holy Spirit, which is seen as the ultimate source of true consolation and love. The author expresses a desire for divine strength to endure life's challenges and to remain steadfast in the pursuit of spiritual goals. In summary, the work serves as a meditative reflection on the struggle between the spiritual and the material, advocating for a life centered on divine love and wisdom. It calls for a conscious effort to prioritize heavenly aspirations over earthly attachments, seeking God's grace to navigate the complexities of existence while maintaining a free and devoted spirit.
By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1620 · Genre: Spiritual Literature, Devotional Writing, Philosophical Literature · 421 words
First lines
Lord, this is the work of a perfect man, never to slacken his mind from attention to heavenly things, and among many cares to pass along as it were without care, not after the manner of one indifferent, but rather with the privilege of a free mind, cleaving to no creature with inordinate affection.
What this Textopian page supports
Of the Exaltation of a Free Spirit, which Humble Prayer more Deserveth than Doth Frequent Reading is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thomas à Kempis, dated 1620 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: 1620 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Spiritual Literature, Devotional Writing, Philosophical Literature, Religious Text, Meditative Prose
- Length: 421 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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- Work identity for Of the Exaltation of a Free Spirit, which Humble Prayer more Deserveth than Doth Frequent Reading by Thomas à Kempis
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Of The Fervent Desire Of Certain Devout Persons To Receive The Body And Blood Of Christ by Thomas A. Kempis
- That The Grace Of God Doth Not Join Itself To Those Who Mind Earthly Things by Thomas A. Kempis
- That Many Good Gifts Are Bestowed Upon Those Who Communicate Devoutly by Thomas A. Kempis
- Of The Royal Way Of The Holy Cross by Thomas A. Kempis
- Of The Reading Of Holy Scripture by Thomas A. Kempis
- That True Solace Is To Be Sought In God Alone by Thomas A. Kempis
Genres
- Spiritual Literature — The text focuses on the relationship between the individual and God, emphasizing spiritual growth and the pursuit of a free spirit.
- Devotional Writing — It serves as a prayer and meditation, encouraging readers to seek divine guidance and reflect on their spiritual state.
- Philosophical Literature — The work explores themes of existence, the nature of the soul, and the struggle between spiritual and worldly desires.
- Religious Text — It contains elements of Christian theology and moral instruction, addressing the importance of faith and divine assistance.
Tags
Christianity · Meditations · Spirituality · Devotional · Philosophy · Theology · Faith · Prayer · Humility · Free Spirit · Inner Life · Self-Reflection
More by Thomas à Kempis
- Of the Imitation of Christ, and of Contempt of the World and all its Vanities (1441)
- Of Thinking Humbly of Oneself (1441)
- Of the Knowledge of Truth (1441)
- Of Prudence in Action (1518)
- Of the Reading of Holy Scripture (1441)
- Of Inordinate Affections (1441)
- Of Fleeing from Vain Hope and Pride (1940)
- Of the Danger of too Much Familiarity (1904)
- All works by Thomas à Kempis