Of the Neglect of Every Creature, that the Creat
The work emphasizes the necessity of transcending worldly attachments to achieve a true connection with the divine. It argues that spiritual elevation requires a detachment from all created things, as these hinder the soul's flight towards God. The text highlights the importance of inner purity and contemplation, asserting that true wisdom and understanding come from divine illumination rather than mere academic knowledge. It critiques the tendency to focus on external symbols and superficial practices instead of genuine spiritual growth and mortification of desires. The author laments the human inclination to prioritize transient concerns over the state of the soul, suggesting that this distraction leads to a corrupted inner life, which in turn manifests in corrupt actions. The distinction between a godly person and a learned scholar is made clear, with the former being valued for their spiritual insight and connection to divine truth. The work calls for a deeper examination of one's inner affections and motivations, urging readers to prioritize spiritual wealth over material or superficial accomplishments. Ultimately, the text serves as a guide for those seeking a more profound relationship with God, advocating for a life of contemplation, virtue, and a focus on the eternal rather than the ephemeral. It challenges readers to reflect on their true spiritual condition and to strive for a heart aligned with divine will, recognizing that true fulfillment lies in the pursuit of the incomprehensible and eternal good.
By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1654 · Genre: Spiritual Literature, Theology, Philosophy · 650 words
First lines
O Lord, I still need more grace, if I would arrive where neither man nor any other creature may hinder me. For so long as anything keepeth me back, I cannot freely fly unto Thee. He desired eagerly thus to fly, who cried, saying, "O that I had wings like a dove, for then would I flee away and be at rest. " What is more peaceful than the single eye? And what more free than he that desireth nothing upon earth? Therefore must a man rise above every creature, and perfectly forsake himself, and with abstracted mind to stand and behold that Thou, the Creator of all things, hast among Thy creatures nothing like unto Thyself. And except a man be freed from all creatures, he will not be able to reach freely after Divine things. Therefore few are found who give themselves to contemplation, because few know how to separate themselves entirely from perishing and created things.
What this Textopian page supports
Of the Neglect of Every Creature, that the Creator May be Found is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thomas à Kempis, dated 1654 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: 1654 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Spiritual Literature, Theology, Philosophy, Devotional Writing, Mysticism
- Length: 650 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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- Work identity for Of the Neglect of Every Creature, that the Creator May be Found by Thomas à Kempis
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Similar titles
- Of Meditation Upon The Hidden Judgments Of God That We May Not Be Lifted Up Because Of Our Well Doing by Thomas A. Kempis
- That True Solace Is To Be Sought In God Alone by Thomas A. Kempis
- That We Must Rest In God Above All Goods And Gifts by Thomas A. Kempis
- Of The Exercises Of A Religious Man by Thomas A. Kempis
- That Many Good Gifts Are Bestowed Upon Those Who Communicate Devoutly by Thomas A. Kempis
- Of Seeking Peace Of Mind And Of Spiritual Progress by Thomas A. Kempis
Genres
- Spiritual Literature — The text focuses on the relationship between the individual and the divine, emphasizing contemplation and the pursuit of spiritual grace.
- Theology — It discusses theological concepts such as the nature of God, the importance of inner purity, and the distinction between worldly knowledge and divine wisdom.
- Philosophy — The work explores philosophical themes regarding existence, the nature of good and evil, and the importance of self-reflection.
- Devotional Writing — It serves as a guide for personal devotion and spiritual practice, encouraging readers to seek a deeper connection with God.
Tags
Christianity · Philosophy · Spirituality · Meditation · Self-Improvement · Personal Growth · Faith · Devotion · Theology · Existentialism · Morality · Ethics
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