Of Thinking Humbly of Oneself

Name: Of Thinking Humbly of Oneself
Author: Thomas à Kempis

The text emphasizes the importance of humility and self-awareness over the pursuit of knowledge. It argues that knowledge devoid of a reverence for God is ultimately worthless. A humble individual who serves God is deemed superior to a learned person who neglects self-knowledge. True understanding leads to a lowly view of oneself, diminishing the value placed on human praise. The work critiques the desire for knowledge that distracts from spiritual health, warning against the vanity that often accompanies intellectual pursuits. It suggests that many forms of knowledge are trivial and that a good life and a clear conscience are far more beneficial for the soul. The text stresses that greater knowledge brings greater responsibility and potential judgment, urging individuals to remain humble and recognize their ignorance. The author advocates for a mindset that values self-forgetfulness and the elevation of others. True wisdom lies in acknowledging one's own weaknesses and refraining from judging others harshly. The text concludes that all humans are frail, and one should not consider oneself superior to others, as integrity can be fleeting. The overarching message is that humility and a focus on spiritual well-being are paramount in the pursuit of knowledge and life.

By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1441 · Genre: Spirituality, Philosophy, Theology · 430 words

First lines

There is naturally in every man a desire to know, but what profiteth knowledge without the fear of God? Better of a surety is a lowly peasant who serveth God, than a proud philosopher who watcheth the stars and neglecteth the knowledge of himself. He who knoweth himself well is vile in his own sight; neither regardeth he the praises of men. If I knew all the things that are in the world, and were not in charity, what should it help me before God, who is to judge me according to my deeds?

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Of Thinking Humbly of Oneself is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thomas à Kempis, dated 1441 CE.

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Work type: Essay
Author: Thomas à Kempis
Date: 1441 CE
Language: English
Genres: Spirituality, Philosophy, Theology, Self-help, Devotional
Length: 430 words
Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Genres

Spirituality — The text emphasizes humility, self-knowledge, and the relationship with God, central themes in spiritual literature.
Philosophy — The work explores philosophical ideas about knowledge, self-perception, and moral judgment.
Theology — It discusses concepts of sin, integrity, and divine judgment, which are key theological themes.
Self-help — The text offers guidance on personal development through humility and self-awareness.