The loftier the building, the deeper must the foundation be laid

The loftier the building, the deeper must the foundation be laid

Thomas a Kempis, a German-Dutch canon regular of the late medieval period, is best known for his work "The Imitation of Christ," a devotional book that has been widely read and revered for centuries. In this work, Kempis offers profound insights into the Christian life and the pursuit of spiritual growth. One of his most famous quotes is, "The loftier the building, the deeper must the foundation be laid."

This quote speaks to the importance of having a strong and solid foundation in all aspects of life, particularly in matters of faith and spirituality. Just as a tall building requires a deep and sturdy foundation to support its weight and height, so too does a person's spiritual life require a strong foundation in order to withstand the challenges and trials that may come their way.

In the context of Kempis' words, it can be interpreted as a reminder that true spiritual growth and maturity require a deep and unwavering commitment to one's beliefs and values. Without a solid foundation of faith, it is easy to be swayed by the winds of doubt and uncertainty. By grounding oneself in a strong foundation of spiritual principles, one can weather the storms of life with grace and resilience.

Furthermore, Kempis' words can also be seen as a call to humility and self-awareness. Just as a tall building must be built on a solid foundation, so too must a person's character be rooted in humility and self-awareness. Without a deep understanding of one's own strengths and weaknesses, it is easy to become prideful and arrogant. By acknowledging the need for a strong foundation of humility and self-awareness, one can build a life that is truly meaningful and fulfilling.