What the Truth Saith Inwardly Without Noise of W

Name: What the Truth Saith Inwardly Without Noise of Words
Author: Thomas à Kempis

The work emphasizes the importance of divine communication over human instruction. It begins with a plea for God to speak directly to the individual, highlighting the inadequacy of human intermediaries like prophets or leaders. The text contrasts the external beauty of human words with the internal illumination provided by God. It asserts that while humans can convey messages, only God can instill true understanding and spiritual vitality. The author reflects on the limitations of human wisdom, noting that without divine inspiration, teachings lack the power to transform the heart. The work advocates for a personal relationship with God, urging the reader to seek direct guidance and enlightenment. It stresses that mere knowledge of scripture is insufficient; true understanding and strength come from God alone. The text also warns against the dangers of hearing without acting, knowing without loving, and believing without obeying. It calls for a deep, internal response to God's word, emphasizing that true fruitfulness in life stems from being spiritually enkindled. The author seeks consolation and transformation through divine communication, aiming for a life that glorifies God. Overall, the work serves as a meditation on the necessity of divine truth in achieving spiritual growth and fulfillment, urging readers to prioritize their relationship with God above all else.

By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1904 · Genre: Spiritual Literature, Theology, Devotional · 405 words

First lines

"Speak, Lord, for Thy servant heareth. "45 "I am Thy servant; O give me understanding, that I may know Thy testimonies. Incline my heart unto the words of Thy mouth. "46 "Let thy speech distil as the dew. " The children of Israel spake in old time to Moses, "Speak thou unto us and we will hear, but let not the Lord speak unto us lest we die. "47 Not thus, O Lord, not thus do I pray, but rather with Samuel the prophet, I beseech Thee humbly and earnestly, "Speak, Lord, for Thy servant heareth. " Let not Moses speak to me, nor any prophet, but rather speak Thou, O Lord, who didst inspire and illuminate all the prophets; for Thou alone without them canst perfectly fill me with knowledge, whilst they without Thee shall profit nothing.

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What the Truth Saith Inwardly Without Noise of Words is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thomas à Kempis, dated 1904 CE.

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Work type: Essay
Author: Thomas à Kempis
Date: 1904 CE
Language: English
Genres: Spiritual Literature, Theology, Devotional, Philosophy, Mysticism
Length: 405 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Genres

Spiritual Literature — The text focuses on the inner spiritual dialogue and the quest for divine understanding, central to spiritual literature.
Theology — It explores themes of divine communication and the relationship between God and humanity, characteristic of theological works.
Devotional — The work serves as a guide for personal devotion and reflection, emphasizing the importance of listening to God.
Philosophy — It engages with philosophical questions about knowledge, understanding, and the nature of truth.