But because many endeavor to get knowledge rather than to live well, they are often deceived and reap little or no benefit from their labor.

The quote by Thomas à Kempis—“But because many endeavor to get knowledge rather than to live well, they are often deceived and reap little or no benefit from their labor”—highlights the distinction between acquiring knowledge and applying it meaningfully in life. Kempis suggests that pursuing intellectual understanding alone, without integrating it into moral, spiritual, or practical living, may lead to vanity, frustration, or ineffectiveness, as knowledge without action fails to improve one’s character or well-being.

A central idea in the quote is the importance of wisdom over mere learning. Kempis emphasizes that knowledge should serve a higher purpose: guiding ethical behavior, nurturing virtue, and enhancing one’s life and the lives of others. When knowledge is pursued solely for intellectual prestige or personal ambition, it risks becoming empty or misleading, providing little real benefit despite the effort expended.

The origin of this quote comes from Thomas à Kempis, a 15th-century German-Dutch canon and spiritual writer, best known for his work The Imitation of Christ. His writings frequently explore themes of humility, devotion, and practical spirituality, emphasizing that intellectual or worldly achievements are meaningful only when aligned with a life of virtue and purpose.

Ultimately, the quote conveys that true benefit from knowledge comes from its application in living well. Kempis underscores that learning alone is insufficient; it must be coupled with ethical conduct, reflection, and purposeful action to enrich both the individual and the wider community.