Promoting peace and harmony from an Abrahamic perspective

 

What is Humility?

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Humility is the quality of having a modest or low view of one's importance. The absence of any feelings of being better than others.

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Why is Humility important?

 

Humility is a crucial quality to have because it enables us to acknowledge our limitations and weaknesses. It encourages us to be receptive to learning from others and to embrace constructive criticism. Additionally, humility enhances our empathy and understanding towards others, fostering stronger relationships and a more positive influence on the world around us.

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To grasp the significance of humility, let's consider the damage that arrogance and pride—the opposites of humility—can cause. How do we feel when someone acts or speaks in a way that suggests they think they are 'better' than others? When we are arrogant or proud, we are less inclined to listen to others' viewpoints, engage in self-reflection, practice mindfulness, or be open to different perspectives on 'truth.' Arrogance often diminishes the level of compassionate kindness we show to others, making them less willing to listen to us. Consequently, success in relationships and other life areas tends to be short-lived, if achieved at all.

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Much of humanity is divided due to conflict, mutual jealousy, pride, arrogance, and the belief that we are right while others are wrong. This division largely stems from our lack of humility, which hinders our ability to discern right from wrong. With humility comes awareness and understanding, making us more likely to grow spiritually, respect, love, and forgive one another. We are less prone to argue or fight over land, power, or material wealth because the more humble we are, the more we wish to share our blessings with others, feel less entitled to them, or use them to help others as a gesture of gratitude.

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Rather than 'blaming God' for events in our lives that we may view negatively, humility reminds us that He knows best and that everything is given by Him in due measure. He is the Best of Planners, and what we perceive as bad may actually be good, and what seems good may, in fact, be bad for us.

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How can Humility help us?

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Humility is a valuable trait that offers numerous benefits. It helps us acknowledge our limitations and fosters personal growth. By cultivating humility, we enhance our empathy and understanding, improving our collaboration in teams. This trait also allows us to form meaningful relationships and promotes spiritual growth by learning from others and our experiences. Embracing humility encourages us to treat others with the respect and kindness we desire, leading to success in our relationships with both our Creator and His creation.

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What distinguishes one person as 'better' than another? We all have the freedom to believe as we choose, yet some may mistakenly view their blessings as a sign of superiority. Consider the factors beyond our control: the color of our skin, our family background, or our education. Did we truly earn our material wealth, or was it given to us? Reflecting on these questions reveals that many of our advantages are not solely due to our own merit. This realization fosters humility, gratitude, and encourages us to share our blessings with those in need. Having blessings does not make us superior; rather, it tests our humility and gratitude.

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For those who believe in a Creator, life's experiences highlight the fleeting nature of our blessings when we fail to appreciate them or become arrogant. We must remember that we are not entirely self-sufficient and that our free will allows us to use our blessings wisely. Let us express gratitude by helping those less fortunate, without looking down on them. They may utilize their blessings in ways we cannot see. Scriptures remind us that true superiority comes from how we use our blessings to worship God and support others. Only God knows our intentions, and we should refrain from judgment. The person we underestimate may be more pleasing to God than we are. Let us remain humble and seek His guidance to foster harmonious relationships with Him and all His creations.

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How can Humility help others?​

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Humility can be a powerful tool for helping others. When we approach situations with a humble attitude, we are more open to listening and learning from others. This can lead to better communication, understanding, and ultimately, more effective solutions to problems. By practising humility, we can create a more supportive and collaborative environment that benefits everyone involved.

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Our level of humility plays a significant role in our ability to connect with others, regardless of their race, religion, or background. How we feel in the presence of those who are boastful and arrogant differs greatly from how we feel around those who are humble and admit their mistakes. By being modest and humble ourselves, we can make others feel more comfortable and be their authentic selves in our presence. This, in turn, helps to foster love, compassion, and trustworthy relationships. When we behave modestly, we reduce feelings of envy and jealousy in others, making it easier for them to like us and build relationships with us. By understanding and valuing others, we create an environment where everyone can be true to themselves and use their blessings to help one another.

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The more we embrace humility, the more we recognise our interconnectedness as part of one soul and existence. This awareness allows us to perceive our surroundings with unity, focusing on our commonalities rather than our differences. We acknowledge that there is no deity but God, the only one worthy of worship. By releasing conflict and anger, we refrain from assuming we are always right. Our actions are not about competing with others, but about pleasing God and following His divine will. We trust in His judgment, seek His guidance, and express gratitude by serving Him to the best of our abilities.

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How can we become more Humble?

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To become more humble, it's important to practice self-reflection and acknowledge our own limitations and mistakes. We can also learn from others and be open to feedback, as well as show empathy and respect towards everyone we interact with. By cultivating a mindset of humility, we can become more compassionate, understanding, and effective in our personal and professional relationships.

 

Life has a way of surprising us and reminding us that we are not always in control. Whether it's losing a loved one or facing a crisis that strips away our sense of security, these events can humble us and make us realise the importance of gratitude. It's during these challenging times that we often turn to a higher power for guidance and support. Ultimately, these experiences help us grow, become more appreciative, and understand that life is fragile.

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Forgiveness is a powerful tool that can help us move on from past hurts and improve our relationships with others.

 

Here 10 ways to become more forgiving:

 

1) Practice empathy and try to see things from the other person's perspective.

 

2 Let go of grudges and focus on the present moment.

 

3) Communicate openly and honestly with the person hurt you.

 

4) Take responsibility for your own actions and emotions.

 

5) Practice self-compassion and be kind to yourself.

 

6) Set healthy boundaries to protect yourself from future harm.

 

7) Seek support from trusted friends or a therapist.

 

8) Practice mindfulness and meditation to cultivate inner peace.

 

9) Remember that forgiveness is a process, not a one-time event.

 

10) Choose to forgive for your own well-being, not just for the other person.

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Scripture quotes on ‘Humility.’

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Abrahamic scripture verses about 'Humility' encompass a wide range of teachings and insights found within the sacred texts of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

 

Each of these religious traditions emphasises the importance of humility as a fundamental virtue that shapes the relationship between individuals and the divine, as well as between individuals themselves.

 

In the Hebrew Bible, for example, humility is often portrayed as a characteristic of those who are favoured by God, highlighting the need for individuals to recognise their limitations and dependence on divine grace. Verses such as Micah 6:8 encapsulate this sentiment, urging believers to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with their God.

 

In the Gospels, humility is also a central theme, particularly in the teachings of Jesus Christ. Passages such as Matthew 5:5, where it states, "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth," illustrate the spiritual significance of humility within the Christian faith.

 

Similarly, in the Quran, humility is presented as an essential quality for believers. Verses such as Surah Al-Furqan (25:63) describe the true servants of the Most Merciful as those who walk upon the earth humbly and respond with peace when addressed. This highlights the notion that humility is not only an inward disposition but also manifests in one's actions and interactions with others. Additionally, the concept of humility in Islam is closely tied to the recognition of God's greatness and the acknowledgment of one's own limitations and sins.

 

Overall, the theme of humility is woven throughout the Abrahamic scriptures, serving as a reminder of the importance of modesty, self-awareness, and respect for others in the pursuit of spiritual growth and community harmony. These verses collectively encourage adherents to cultivate a humble spirit, recognizing that true greatness lies in serving others and submitting to the will of God.

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Quranic Perspective on 'Humility'

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Humility is a profound and essential virtue emphasised throughout the Quran, reflecting the importance of modesty and the recognition of one's place in the grand scheme of creation. The Quran repeatedly encourages believers to embody humility in their interactions with others and in their relationship with Allah. One of the fundamental aspects of humility in the Quran is the acknowledgment of human limitations and the greatness of the Creator. For instance, in Surah Al-Furqan (25:63), Allah describes the true servants of the Most Merciful as those who walk upon the earth humbly and who, when addressed by the ignorant, respond with peace. This verse illustrates that humility is not merely a personal trait but a social one that influences how individuals engage with those around them.

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The Quran highlights the importance of humility in prayer and worship. Surah Al-Baqarah (2:45) states, "And seek help through patience and prayer, and indeed, it is difficult except for the humbly submissive." This verse indicates that true submission to Allah is rooted in humility, which allows believers to connect deeply with their Creator. The act of bowing and prostrating in prayer serves as a physical manifestation of this humility, symbolizing the surrender of one's ego and recognition of the divine authority of Allah.

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In addition to personal humility, the Quran warns against arrogance and pride. Surah Al-Isra (17:37) advises believers not to walk upon the earth with arrogance, as such behaviour is displeasing to Allah. This warning serves as a reminder that arrogance can lead to one's downfall, while humility is a path that brings one closer to divine favor. Another significant verse is found in Surah Al-Hadid (57:23), where Allah emphasises the transient nature of worldly life and possessions, urging believers to remain humble and focused on the eternal life to come.

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The Quran presents the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as the ultimate model of humility. His life exemplified the balance between dignity and modesty, as he interacted with the rich and poor alike, treating everyone with respect and kindness. The Quran encourages followers to emulate his humility in their own lives, fostering a spirit of community and compassion. In this regard, Surah Al-Anfal (8:61) mentions the importance of maintaining peace and humility, stating that if the enemy inclines towards peace, then believers should also incline towards it, demonstrating that humility can lead to reconciliation and harmony.

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Overall, the Quranic verses about humility serve as a comprehensive guide for believers, emphasising that humility is not just a personal attribute but a vital component of faith that shapes character, behaviour, and relationships. By internalising these teachings, individuals can cultivate a humble spirit that honors Allah and fosters a sense of unity and respect within the community.

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Parables of Jesus about 'humility'

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Throughout the teachings of Jesus, the concept of humility emerges as a fundamental virtue that is essential for spiritual growth and interpersonal relationships. Jesus often used parables—simple stories with profound moral lessons—to illustrate the importance of being humble in a world that frequently exalts pride and self-importance. One of the most notable parables that encapsulate this theme is the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector, found in the Gospel of Luke (18:9-14). In this story, Jesus contrasts the attitudes of a proud Pharisee, who boasts about his religious observances, with a humble tax collector who acknowledges his shortcomings and pleads for mercy. Through this narrative, Jesus emphasises that true righteousness comes not from self-congratulation but from a sincere recognition of one's own flaws and the need for divine grace.

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A significant parable that reflects the theme of humility is the Parable of the Lost Sheep (Luke 15:1-7). In this story, a shepherd leaves his ninety-nine sheep to search for one that is lost, demonstrating the value of every individual and the lengths to which one should go to restore those who have strayed. This act of humility and compassion highlights the importance of caring for others, regardless of their status or past mistakes, and shows that true leadership involves serving and prioritising the needs of others over oneself.

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The Parable of the Great Banquet (Luke 14:15-24) further illustrates the principle of humility in social settings. In this parable, Jesus advises against taking the highest seats at a banquet, suggesting that one should choose the lowest place. This teaching encourages individuals to adopt a humble posture, allowing others to elevate them rather than seeking to elevate oneself. The message is clear: those who exalt themselves will ultimately be humbled, while those who humble themselves will be exalted. This principle is a recurring theme in Jesus' teachings, urging followers to prioritise humility in their interactions and relationships.

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Moreover, the importance of humility is not only a personal virtue but also a communal value that fosters unity and understanding among individuals. Jesus’ parables encourage believers to cultivate a spirit of humility, which can lead to reconciliation and peace within communities. By recognising our shared humanity and the inherent value of each person, humility paves the way for more compassionate and loving relationships, reflecting the heart of Jesus' message.

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In conclusion, the parables of Jesus serve as timeless reminders of the transformative power of humility. They challenge individuals to reflect on their attitudes, behaviours, and relationships, urging them to embrace a humble spirit that aligns with the teachings of Christ. By doing so, believers not only draw closer to God but also foster a more loving and inclusive community, embodying the principles of humility that Jesus exemplified throughout his ministry.

 

Verses from the Torah and Tanach about 'Humility'

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Humility is a profound and essential virtue often emphasized in the sacred texts of Judaism, particularly in the Torah and Tanach. The concept of humility is not merely about a lack of arrogance or pride; rather, it encompasses a deep understanding of one's place in the world, the acknowledgment of one's limitations, and a sincere respect for others. Numerous verses throughout these texts highlight the importance of humility as a pathway to wisdom, a means of fostering community, and an expression of one's relationship with the Divine.

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For instance, in the Torah, we find the figure of Moses, who is described as "very humble, more than any man who was on the face of the earth" (Numbers 12:3). This verse not only underscores Moses' exceptional humility but also illustrates how such a trait is integral to effective leadership and spiritual guidance. His humility allowed him to serve as a mediator between God and the Israelites, demonstrating that true leaders are those who prioritize the needs of their people over their own status or recognition.

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Moreover, the Tanach contains numerous proverbs that extol the virtues of humility. Proverbs 22:4 states, "The reward of humility and the fear of the Lord is riches, honour, and life." This verse suggests that humility is closely linked to reverence for God, implying that those who practice humility are more likely to receive blessings in various forms. This connection between humility and divine favour is a recurring theme throughout the texts, reinforcing the idea that humility is not just a personal trait but a spiritual principle that aligns one with the will of God.

Furthermore, in the prophetic literature, we see calls for humility as a response to social injustice and a means of fostering genuine repentance. Micah 6:8 famously states, "He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" This verse encapsulates the essence of humility as an active, living principle that manifests in our actions towards others and our relationship with the Divine. Walking humbly with God implies a continuous journey of self-reflection, ethical behaviour, and a commitment to justice and mercy.

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In addition to these examples, the overarching narrative of the Hebrew Scriptures encourages a lifestyle of humility as a counterbalance to the hubris often found in human nature. The stories of the kings of Israel, particularly those who fell from grace due to their pride, serve as cautionary tales that highlight the dangers of arrogance and the importance of maintaining a humble spirit. The lessons drawn from these narratives resonate through generations, reminding us that humility is a strength that fosters resilience, compassion, and unity among individuals and communities.

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In conclusion, the verses from the Torah and Tanach regarding humility provide rich insights into the significance of this virtue in both personal and communal contexts. They challenge us to cultivate humility within ourselves, to recognize the value in others, and to seek a deeper connection with the Divine through a humble heart. As we reflect on these teachings, we are encouraged to embody humility in our daily lives, understanding that it is a pathway to true wisdom, fulfillment, and harmony with the world around us.

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Further Abrahamic Scripture Verses on 'Humility'

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'When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.' Proverbs 11:2 

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'Pride brings a person low, but the lowly in spirit gain honour.' Proverbs 29:23 

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'Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honour and life.' Proverbs 22:4

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'Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.' Matthew 11:29-30 

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'Before a downfall the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honour.' Proverbs 18:12 

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Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.' Mark 9:35 

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'So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honoured by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.' Matthew 6:2 

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'Wisdom’s instruction is to fear the Lord, and humility comes before honour.' Proverbs 15:33 

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'Good and upright is the Lord; therefore he instructs sinners in his ways. He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.' Psalm 25:8-9 

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'Then he said to them, “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For it is the one who is least among you all who is the greatest.”' Luke 9:48 

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'He must become greater; I must become less.' John 3:30 

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'For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.' Mark 10:45

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'Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything he does is right and all his ways are just. And those who walk in pride he is able to humble.' Daniel 4:37 

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'Not to us, Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.' Psalm 115:1

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'When you fast, do not look sombre as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.' Matthew 6:16

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'Woe to those who quarrel with their Maker, those who are nothing but potsherds among the potsherds on the ground. Does the clay say to the potter, ‘What are you making? ‘Does your work say, ‘The potter has no hands’?' Isaiah 45:9 

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'Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. John 13:14 | NIV

Come; let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker.' Psalm 95:6

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'The Lord sends poverty and wealth; he humbles and he exalts.' 1 Samuel 2:7 

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'Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.' Zechariah 9:9 

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'Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave.' Matthew 20:26-27 

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'What is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?' Psalm 8:4 

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‘The servants of the Most Merciful are those who walk upon the earth in humility, and when the ignorant address them, they say words of peace.’ Quran 25:63

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‘Call upon your Lord with humility and in private. Verily, He does not love transgressors.’ Quran 7:55

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‘Remember your Lord in yourselves with humility and in private without announcing it in the mornings and evening, and do not be among the heedless.’ Quran 7:205

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‘Lower to your parents the wing of humility out of mercy and say: My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up when I was small.’ Quran 17:24

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‘Successful indeed are the believers who humble themselves in their prayers.’ Quran 23:02

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‘And turn not your face away from men with pride, nor walk in insolence through the earth. Verily God likes not each arrogant boaster.’ Quran 31:18

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‘And we have already sent messengers to nations before you, then we seized them with poverty and hardship that perhaps they might humble themselves.’ Quran 6:42

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‘Give good news to the humble-hearted.’ Quran 22:34

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‘Indeed, they who have believed and done righteous deeds and humbled themselves to their Lord- those are the companions of Paradise; they will abide eternally therein.’ Quran 11:23

 

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