Thomas à Kempis (also known as Thomas of Kempen, c. 1380–1471) was a German Augustinian canon, mystic, and spiritual writer.
He is best known as the author of The Imitation of Christ (Imitatio Christi) – one of the most influential works of Christian mysticism and devotion.
In a time of religious upheaval, Thomas à Kempis emphasized inner reflection, humility, and personal discipleship of Christ as the path to God.
His life was marked by simplicity, prayer, and monastic discipline in the spirit of the Devotio Moderna, a reform movement that valued inward devotion over outward forms.
No man is worthy of heavenly consolation who has not first practiced diligently in the school of holy contrition. If your hard mind is to be softened / your closed heart is to be opened again / then go into your chamber and do not let the tumult of the world in. As the Scripture says: in your chambers speak to your heart / until it becomes sore and soft.
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