The Spiritual Exercises by Ignatius of Loyola is one of the most influential devotional texts in Christian history. Written in the 16th century by the founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), this manual provides a structured program of prayer, meditation, and contemplation intended to help individuals discern God’s will and deepen their spiritual life.
The Exercises are not a book to be read passively but a guide to be practiced. Ignatius designed them to be used over a period of four weeks, focusing successively on sin and repentance, the life of Christ, the Passion, and the Resurrection. Each day combines meditation, self-examination, and resolutions, with the ultimate aim of aligning the believer’s desires with the divine.
Though rooted in Catholic spirituality, The Spiritual Exercises has reached far beyond its original audience. For centuries it has been used
by clergy, religious communities, and laypeople seeking spiritual clarity. Its practical instructions, psychological insight, and disciplined approach have made it a timeless resource for personal transformation.
This English translation is in the public domain and presented here in full, preserving the clarity and directness of Ignatius’ instructions:
