Of the Imitation of Christ/Book I/Chapter II
CHAPTER II.
OF HAVING A HUMBLE OPINION OF OURSELVES.
LL men naturally desire knowledge; but what availeth knowledge without the fear of God?
Surely a humble peasant who serves God, is better than a proud philosopher who, to the neglect of Him, studies the course of the heavens.
Whoso knoweth himself, is lowly in his own eyes, and delighteth not in the praises of men.
If I understood all things in the world, and had not charity, what would that avail me in the sight of God, Who will judge me according to my deeds?
2. Cease from an inordinate desire for knowledge, for therein is much distraction and deceit.
Learned men are anxious to be esteemed learned by others, and to be called wise.
There are many things the knowledge of which doth little or nothing profit the soul: And he is very unwise who minds such things rather than those that tend to his salvation.
Many words do not satisfy the soul; but a good life comforteth the mind, and a pure conscience giveth great confidence in God.
3. The more and the better thou knowest and understandest, the more strictly wilt thou be judged, unless thy life be also more holy.
Be not therefore puffed up because of any art or science, but rather let the knowledge given thee make thee more cautious.
If thou thinkest that thou understandest and knowest much; yet know that there be many more things which thou knowest not.
Affect not to be overwise, but rather acknowledge thine own ignorance.
Why wilt thou prefer thyself before others, seeing there be many more learned, and more skilful in the Scripture than thyself?
If thou wilt know or learn anything profitably, desire to be unknown, and little esteemed.
4. The highest and most profitable lesson is the true knowledge of ourselves.
To think nothing of ourselves, and to think always well and highly of others, is great wisdom and perfection.
If thou shouldest see another openly sin, or commit some heinous offence, yet oughtest thou not to esteem thyself better; for thou knowest not how long thou mayest be able to stand.
We are all frail, but esteem none more frail than thyself.
