That the Desires of the Heart are to be Examined

Name: That the Desires of the Heart are to be Examined and Governed
Author: Thomas à Kempis

The work emphasizes the importance of examining and governing one's desires in alignment with divine will. It begins with a call to self-reflection, urging the reader to recognize the need for subjugating personal desires to a higher purpose. The text warns against pursuing desires that may seem beneficial but can lead to spiritual distraction or dissatisfaction. It highlights the necessity of seeking counsel from a higher authority before acting on desires, as unchecked ambitions can lead to regret. The author stresses that not all seemingly good desires should be pursued immediately, and that restraint is sometimes required to maintain focus and discipline. The work advocates for a struggle against the sensual appetites, encouraging the reader to prioritize spiritual over physical satisfaction. It suggests that the flesh should be disciplined to accept simplicity and contentment, fostering a mindset that values spiritual growth over material or selfish pursuits. The overarching theme is the alignment of personal desires with divine intentions, promoting a life of virtue and self-control.

By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1516 · Genre: Spirituality, Philosophy, Religious · 353 words

First lines

"My Son, thou hast still many things to learn, which thou hast not well learned yet."

What are they, Lord?

What this Textopian page supports

That the Desires of the Heart are to be Examined and Governed is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thomas à Kempis, dated 1516 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: 1516 CE
Language: English
Genres: Spirituality, Philosophy, Religious, Self-help, Meditation
Length: 353 words
Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Spirituality — The text focuses on the examination and governance of desires in relation to spiritual growth and alignment with divine will.
Philosophy — It presents philosophical reflections on desire, self-control, and the nature of good and evil.
Religious — The work is rooted in Christian teachings and emphasizes the importance of seeking God's will over personal desires.
Self-help — It offers guidance on personal development and managing one's desires for a more fulfilling life.