The Imitation of Christ (Zipper Edition)

The Imitation of Christ (Zipper Edition)

By Thomas à Kempis · Published by TAN Books

Overview

Outside of Sacred Scripture, The Imitation of Christ remains the most enduring, widely read, and spiritually impactful classic of the Western tradition. Treasured by saints, popes, martyrs, and ordinary Christians for over half a millennium, this 15th-century masterpiece by Thomas à Kempis guides the soul to detach from worldly anxieties and embrace a hidden, intimate life with Jesus Christ. This unique, premium Zipper Edition beautifully marries the book's deep spiritual reverence with everyday practicality. Designed for a life in motion, the durable cover and secure zipper closure protect the sacred text from wear, moisture, and rough handling. Whether on your daily commute, a rigorous spiritual retreat, or a holy pilgrimage, this edition ensures that the roadmap to interior peace and holy simplicity is always within reach.

Thomas à Kempis’s advice is entirely un-sentimental and radically transformative. It acts as a scalpel for the conscience, a tonic for the modern will, and an anchor for the soul amidst the noise of the secular world. By choosing to imitate Christ in every thought, word, and deed, the reader is systematically led away from the illusions of vanity and toward the steadfast reality of God’s grace.

• Time-Tested Sanctity: Enter into deep communion with Christ through the exact spiritual counsel that formed countless saints throughout history.
• Uncompromising Discipline: Learn the liberating arts of courageous self-denial, authentic humility, and total surrender to the Divine Will.
• Built for Your Life: The rugged, zippered binding keeps your ribbons in place and completely protects the pages from the elements.
• Daily Examination: Utilize the brief, punchy chapters as a practical daily companion for a structured morning offering, holy hour meditation, or nightly examen.

From the Book

“If thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.”
— Book III

“Vanity of vanities, and all is vanity, except to love God and serve Him alone. This is the highest wisdom: by despising the world, to strive after the kingdom of heaven.”
— Book I

Intended Audience

This classic is an essential acquisition for any Catholic serious about advancing in the interior life, from beginners looking for accessible spiritual direction to seasoned devotees. The Zipper Edition adds an indispensable layer of convenience for high school or college students, frequent travelers, military personnel, and working professionals who want to seamlessly integrate spiritual formation into their active daily lives.

FAQs

Is this text hard to read or understand?
Not at all. While Thomas à Kempis’s truths are exceptionally deep, they are written in short, aphoristic sentences and concise chapters that are incredibly clear, highly inviting, and immediately applicable to ordinary life.

Can I store loose holy cards and notes inside the cover?
Yes! The full-perimeter zipper closure acts as a secure pouch, allowing you to keep your favorite devotional cards, prayer lists, and bookmarks safe without any risk of them falling out.

Is this a full and unabridged translation?
Yes. This edition contains the complete, timeless spiritual text divided into its traditional four books, ensuring you get the full, unaltered benefit of Kempis's classic monastic wisdom.