The Imitation of Christ

In 1960 at St. Joseph's European Boys High School, Bangalore, India, one of my teachers, Fr. Saldhana ("Bulldog") required us to read parts of this book in Catechism class. In those days Christians and non-Christians at this Jesuit school had to take two compulsory subjects - Catechism and Moral Science - no exceptions on religious grounds etc. Even then as young rambunctious kids we liked this book because it was easy to read and simple enough that answering test questions on it was a breeze. Since then I have re-read this book many times and now decided to get this Benham translation for my Kindle.Needless to say this book is a timeless classic by any standards. However, this translation by Fr. Benham is quite excellent in that it flows freely retaining the majesty, piety, scope, and grandeur of the material. A superb achievement. Also I wish to mention that just because you may be of another faith don't let that stop you from reading this extremely beautiful, enriching, and edifying book. Be you a Hindu, Muslim, Parsi, Jew, or Buddhist you are sure to find this book extremely rewarding. Why? Because the thoughts expressed here are universal, simple, and concern the very kernel of the "Why" question. A most rewarding book that you will most likely re-read many times in the years to come.

I have used this book as a devotional for nearly 50 years and so was pleased to order it recently for my Kindle Fire. I usually read it for 5-15 minutes at a time for spiritual meditation and guidance. It's strength is that it is grounded in the Word, with verses referenced. The section on communion seems too long. I prefer Brother Lawrence's book, but this is a close second.

This book is excellent for those who wish to grow in their spiritual lives!

This book is a gift to all who put Our Lord first in their lives. Theologians have opined that it was mainly written for men and women seeking vocations in the religious life. So if it seems somewhat severe for laymen....keep that in mind.

This book - The Imitation of Christ By Thomas A. Kempis and Translated by Rev William Benham, aims to articulate the deep feelings and experiences of a heart that yearns to please the Most High God and it achieves that goal along with providing deep insights into the holy scriptures. The prayers written in this book by Thomas Kempis are treasure gems that illustrate how one can pray the scriptures in a meaningful manner. It is the best book I have read apart from the bible, and it does not try to replace the bible in anyway but to put focus on the scriptures. It is a loaded book. I read a sentence multiple times and each time I read it my understanding is increased. The book is well organized and not constrained in the layout. You can pick it up and start from anywhere. It is truly written by a Man whose heart longed for perfect alignment with Gods' will and it inspires us to do the same. To see one's struggles, experiences and deep feelings articulated so effectively and insightfully is truly a gift and Thomas A Kempis was blessed with that gift to write this book.

An all time favorite book. This book should be owned and read by everyone. This should be read daily and it 's teachings should be practiced daily.

A great book to meditate on. One of great books after the Bible! It's very inspirational. I recommend it highly.

The Imitation Of Christ, book is just what I wanted and print and paper make it very readable. I'm really enjoying it.

Wouldn't recommend at all. Amazon have bought the rights to this text because its a money spinner. The absolute minimum has been put into it, cheap and tacky cover, no commentary or editing or added insight and published as cheap as possible by Amazon. Surely, there is something in 'Imitation' that refers to greed and profit above all. It would apply to Amazon in this respect. Second hand Penguin Classics version is far far far better. I'd also raise an eyebrow at some of the other reviews. There's a faintly sulphuric whiff of PR bunnies etc.

For my college work.

Its fine,clean new.

Great book it came quickly

very good

I did not give it five stars because the old style English is used in this version.