Humility is a virtue that is often misunderstood. In spiritual contexts, humility has a deep and profound meaning that goes far beyond simply being modest or self-effacing.
True humility is about recognizing our place in the greater scheme of things – it is an inner quality that allows us to see ourselves clearly, without ego or arrogance. Humility enables us to connect to something far greater than ourselves.
Defining Humility
Humility comes from the Latin word ‘humilis’ which means “grounded” or “from the earth.” To be humble is to recognize that we are all equal – we all originate from the earth and will return there. Pride and arrogance obscure this truth.
Spiritual teacher Eckhart Tolle describes humility beautifully: “True humility is when you can stand in front of a mirror, look at yourself without emotion, and see yourself as you are.” This neutral, ego-less perception allows us to see ourselves clearly, as we truly are.
Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less. It is an inner quality of accurately assessing our talents and shortcomings, detached from ego. With humility, we have a balanced perspective on who we are.
Key Elements of Humility
- Self-awareness – Knowing our strengths and limitations without exaggeration
- Open-mindedness – Willingness to learn and change
- Gratitude – Appreciating all that we have
- Selflessness – Focusing less on the self and more on others
Cultivating these qualities helps us become more humble human beings. As we embody humility, we relate to others and ourselves with compassion.
The Spiritual Purpose of Humility
In spiritual contexts, the purpose of humility is to loosen the grip of the ego so we can open up to the experience of the divine within us. It allows us to surrender our limited personal will to align with our Higher Self or God’s will.
Pride and arrogance create separation – they inflate the ego and obscure our connection to the Sacred. Humility restores this connection by silencing the ego. It reminds us that there are mysteries and powers far greater than our own.
Humility balances egotism and self-centeredness by helping us realize we are each a small part of an interconnected whole. We shift from “me” to “we” – from separation to unity.
Pathways Humility Opens
- Self-transcendence – Moving beyond ego to connect with the Higher Self
- Unity – Recognizing the oneness underlying all creation
- Service – Focusing less on personal gain and more on helping others
- Worship – Opening up to the awe-inspiring mystery of the Divine
With humility, we become vessels open to the wonder, love and wisdom that flows through all Life. Our lives become offerings to the Sacred.
Embracing Humility for Spiritual Growth
Developing humility is imperative for spiritual growth. Ego and pride block our connection to the Sacred within us and around us. Here are some ways to cultivate humility in our lives:
Ways to Embrace Humility
- Practice self-reflection – Observe thoughts and emotions with non-judgement
- Express gratitude – Be thankful for all that Life provides
- Perform selfless service – Volunteer and help others in need
- Spend time in nature – Feel part of something greater than yourself
- Engage in spiritual practices – Prayer, meditation, chanting, etc.
As we shed layers of ego and pride through these practices, we naturally become conduits for divine light. We open up to guidance, inspiration and bliss. Our individual will aligns with God’s will and we flow with Life.
Humility is an ongoing process of emptying ourselves so we can be filled with grace. Ecuadorian poet Jorge Carrera Andrade wrote: “Humility is nothing but truth, and pride is nothing but lying.” With humility, we live in truth.
The Deeper Meaning of Humility
At its core, humility is about transcending the isolated sense of self. It is about shifting from an “I” orientation rooted in ego to a “We” orientation rooted in universal oneness.
Spiritual writer Richard Rohr describes it as: “The ultimate goal of humility is union…with all things…” When we relinquish over-identification with the ego, we open to belonging to and communion with the Whole.
This expanded perspective dissolves separateness and helps us relinquish egoic desires. We open up to fulfillment through union, service and love.
Hallmarks of Deeper Humility
- Interbeing – Knowing we are all interconnected
- Impermanence – Recognizing that all things change
- Insignificance – Seeing our small place in the cosmos
- Interdependence – Relying on each other and Life
At this level, humility frees us from false pride and makes us aware of our shared essence. We are insignificant yet interdependent parts of an impermanent but Interconnected whole. This awareness breeds compassion.
Applying Humility’s Spiritual Lessons
How do we live with humility in a prideful world? Here are some ways to apply the deeper spiritual lessons of humility in daily life:
- Catch yourself when being boastful or arrogant
- Be open to learning from anyone – even those we dislike
- Admit mistakes readily and apologize for errors
- Give credit to others who contribute to successes
- Let go of judgment about yourself and others
We can catch ourselves when acting from ego and consciously shift to acting from wisdom and love. As we embody spiritual humility, we become an instrument of divine grace.
Sri Chinmoy said: “Humility offers us the golden key to enter into the fortress of the spiritual life. If we discard humility, we cannot make an inch of progress.” With humility, we open up to boundless spiritual progress.
Imagine how transformed our world would be if we all embraced the spiritual meaning of humility – seeing ourselves clearly, recognizing our shared essence, and acting with compassion. May we all walk this path of wisdom and love.
Dreams, spirit, growth – I explore them all. Laugh, learn, grow with me. Unlock your inner guru.
