Advantage Quote by Thomas a Kempis
“Restrain an inordinate desire for knowledge, in which is found much anxiety and deception. Learned men always wish to appear so, and desire recognition of their wisdom. But there are many matters, knowledge of which brings little or no advantage to the soul.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Imitation of Christ by Thomas à Kempis, 1418
Excessive pursuit of knowledge can cause anxiety and false pride; not all learning benefits the soul.
In simple terms: Too much learning can cause anxiety and and useful
Key Takeaway
Seek useful knowledge, avoid vanity.
Themes
humility
knowledge
anxiety
pride
Mood
reflective
serene
Type
ethical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- scholarly pursuits
- personal development
- spiritual practice
- teaching
- reading
Key Concepts
spiritual growth
wisdom
self‑knowledge
Questions to Reflect On
- What knowledge truly nourishes your spirit?
- How can you balance learning with humility?
A Different Perspective
Not all information is valuable; discernment is needed.
![“Next came the Patent laws. These began in England in 1624; and, in this country, with the adoption of our constitution. Before then [these?], any man might instantly use what another had invented; so that the inventor had no special advantage from his own invention. The patent system changed this…” quote by Abraham Lincoln](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/449/abraham-lincoln-88_adoption_next-came-the-patent-laws-these-began-in_1828.jpg)
