RESPONSE PAPER

Response Paper: The Imitation of Christ

Response Paper: The Imitation of Christ

Thomas A Kempis; who was a Catholic monk in the late medieval era, is primarily known as an author of what has become classic today pertaining to the books of devotion for Christianity; 'The Imitation of Christ'. The work in actual reflects on the monastic life along with the teachings of the monks characterizing 15th century. He was a German Canon Regular as also indicated by his name which means 'Thomas of Kempen'; where Kempen was his hometown in Germany. The origination of 'The Imitation of Christ' occurred as a consequence of 'Devotio Moderna Movement'; of which Thomas was an active member. The book stands next to Bible on the basis of the frequency with which it is read around the world as a devotional hand book and spiritual guide. It is as a result of this that this book has been translated into most languages after Bible. The text of 'The Imitation of Christ' which comprises four books chiefly focuses on the withdrawal from the worldly matters and the world for that matter. Another major characterization revolves around the emphasis on devotion and immense dedication towards Eucharist; highlighted as a pivotal factor comprising spiritual life.

Counsels on the Spiritual Life

The book in itself is an effective and constant reminder of the idea that the spirit and intention as boasted by the religious orders are aligned with that impersonated by devoted Christians. 'The Imitation of Christ' characterizing revival of the religious life in the past century effectively represents living witness to the personal discipline that is inculcated by the lifestyle that the devoted Christian is bound to follow. Book one titled 'Counsels on the Spiritual Life' focuses on the liberation of the human sole from that of the occupation exercised by the materialistic world along with its off-shoots, through shifting the center of its focus to the supreme being and His teachings on the matters of life and living. Referring to S. Paul, Thomas explains how this step dictates the divine route towards first stage of the union of the human soul with God. Realization of nothingness from which men is erected and will eventually dissolve into, men open their eyes to the fact that only God can transform their lives and even though work of Thomas proceeds with the counsels for the religious, it also is of significant value ...