The Imitation of Christ

The Imitation of Christ

By Thomas à Kempis · Translated by Bishop Richard Challoner · Published by TAN Books

Overview

After the Holy Bible, The Imitation of Christ has long been considered the most universally beloved and spiritually consequential classic in the Catholic world. For over five hundred years, this seminal fifteenth-century masterpiece has served as an intimate guide for countless souls navigating their way out of worldly vanities and toward authentic humility, continuous prayer, and deeper union with God. This cherished edition from TAN Books features the renowned English translation by Bishop Richard Challoner, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful, edifying, and faithful renderings ever produced.

Written by Thomas à Kempis during the height of the Devotio Moderna movement, this profound work speaks directly and unreservedly to the interior life of the Christian soul. It issues a radical, timeless call to lay down personal pride, embrace the daily discipline of the Cross, and find an unshakeable peace that can only be anchored in Christ’s presence. Celebrated by legendary theologians like Father Reginald Garrigou-Lagrange as a perfect manual of mysticism accessible to all, it is famously known as the precise book that Saint Thérèse of Lisieux memorized by heart and used as her sole companion for spiritual reading. Whether you are seeking a shield against the anxieties of modern life or looking to refine your daily walk of faith, this classic belongs at the center of every Catholic library.

• Follow the Saints: Access the exact spiritual treasury that formed great doctors of the Church and fueled the hidden holiness of the Little Flower.
• A Masterful Translation: Benefit from the beautiful prose of Bishop Richard Challoner—renowned for revising the Douay-Rheims Bible—bringing clarity and immediacy to fifteenth-century monastic wisdom.
• Root Out Vice: Discover deep, uncompromising reflections that actively strip away the illusions of human vanity, ambitions, and rash judgments.
• Embrace the Cross: Learn the profound art of interior perseverance, transforming unexpected adversities and injustices into avenues of grace.

From the Book

“‘He that followeth me, walketh not in darkness,’ saith Our Lord. These are the words of Christ, by which we are admonished, that we must imitate His life and manners, if we would be truly enlightened, and delivered from all blindness of heart.”
— Book I, Chapter 1

“What doth it avail thee to discourse profoundly of the Trinity if thou be void of humility, and consequently, displeasing to the Trinity? In truth, sublime words make not a man holy and just: but a virtuous life maketh him dear to God. I would rather feel compunction, than know its definition.”
— Book I, Chapter 1

Intended Audience

This classic volume is an indispensable acquisition for any Catholic striving to deepen their interior prayer life, foster an authentic spirit of humility, and navigate spiritual direction. Its short, punchy reflections make it the ultimate companion for daily mental prayer, morning offering readings, holy hour visits, or evening family examinations of conscience. It serves as an accessible text for beginners while continuing to challenge advanced souls.

FAQs

Why is the Challoner translation preferred above others?
Bishop Richard Challoner's translation is lauded for retaining the poetic gravity and reverent tone of the original Latin while rendering it completely fluid, practical, and clear for modern ears without introducing loose, secularized modern paraphrases.

Is this book a continuous narrative or a daily devotional?
It is structured as a collection of brief, focused chapters. While it can be read straight through as a profound treatise on spiritual theology, it functions best when used as a daily devotional—focusing deeply on just one short chapter or reflection at a time.

Does this work focus on the Sacraments?
Yes, intensely. The final portion of the book (Book IV) is entirely dedicated to a devout exhortation to Holy Communion, making it an extraordinary companion text for Eucharistic adoration and preparation for Holy Mass.