Skip to content

Desire Quote by Thomas a Kempis

“Leave off that excessive desire of knowing; therein is found much distraction. There are many things the knowledge of which is of little or no profit to the soul.” quote by Thomas a Kempis
Download Open image
“Leave off that excessive desire of knowing; therein is found much distraction. There are many things the knowledge of which is of little or no profit to the soul.”

Thomas a Kempis

About This Quote

Source Book: The Imitation of Christ by Thomas à Kempis, 1418

The quote warns that pursuing unnecessary knowledge creates distraction and offers little benefit to the soul.

In simple terms: Unneeded knowledge distracts and harms the soul.

Key Takeaway

Focus on what truly matters.

Themes

wisdom focus spirituality

Mood

contemplative serene

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • academic study
  • social media scrolling
  • gossip
  • unnecessary debates

Key Concepts

distraction knowledge profit

Questions to Reflect On

  • What knowledge do you chase without purpose?
  • How can you limit distractions from trivial information?
A Different Perspective

Even useful knowledge can become a hindrance if not applied wisely.

2.8 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Thomas a Kempis

Explore all 387 Thomas a Kempis quotes

More Desire quotes

Browse all 15,159 Desire quotes