Humility

Humility, much like khusu, resides within the heart. Portraying oneself as humble is often driven by the desire to maintain one's status or the ambition to exert authority. Sincere humility lies in not considering oneself competent for the virtuous qualities others may perceive in them.

Our beloved Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) emphasized the significance of humility and the beauty it brings in a hadith when he said, "Allah the Exalted has revealed to me: 'Be humble, so that no one oppresses another, and boasts to another.'" (Muslim, Jannah 16)

This noble hadith, cited in Sahih Muslim by Imam Muslim (rahmatullahi alayh) was narrated by Rasulullah's (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) long-time companion, Iyad b. Himar, (radiyallahu anh).

In explicating this hadith, Imam Ibn Allan (rahmatullahi alayh) says:

"All humans originate from the same essence. Thus, for one to become arrogant over fleeting attributes bestowed upon them is not the behavior of a rational being. The wise individual chooses what is eternal over the transient. They recognize that true value lies in deeds that align with the pleasure of Allah the Most High and act accordingly."

Scholars define humility as "regarding oneself as inferior to others in terms of virtues." According to this definition, one should acknowledge that even a sinner who repents may be superior to them. 

Humility Masking Arrogance

Arrogance, the antithesis of humility, is a grave spiritual ailment forbidden by the Most High. He does not share the attribute of “al-Mutakabbir” and greatness with anyone; greatness and magnificence are attributes exclusive to Him. Conversely, the Most Merciful, in the manifestation of His attribute "as-Sattar," conceals the sins and flaws of His servants. This is indeed a great blessing for humanity.

However, a person, enticed by Shaytan or driven by the desires of the nafs, can twist such a noble blessing against themselves. Instead of humbly acknowledging their concealed sins and faults, they may begin to see themselves as superior. In this way, they can inadvertently use the blessings of Allah the Almighty in rebellion against Him, forgetting the many flaws He has hidden for them. Thus, it is crucial for individuals to continuously engage in "self-awareness of the heart - wuquf-i qalbi."

Here, one must exercise a precise balance. Deliberately displaying humility can also be a form of arrogance. Humility, much like khushu, resides within the heart. Portraying oneself as humble is often driven by the desire to maintain one's status or the ambition to exert authority. Sincere humility lies in not considering oneself competent for the virtuous qualities others may perceive in them. 

The fundamental ethical characteristic of a believer is not to presume that any virtue they possess makes them superior to others. A sincere, humble believer understands that all superiority belongs to Allah alone. They recognize that any visible or hidden virtues they may possess are a result of Allah's favor. Simultaneously, they understand that many of their faults remain hidden from others by Allah's mercy.

Perhaps one of the most distinctive signs of humility is the believer's ability to receive criticism and admonitions graciously, accepting them with an open heart and striving to rectify themselves.

To Whom Should Humility Be Shown?

Imam Qurtubi (rahmatullahi alayh) explains the types of humility as follows:

• humility towards Allah, which involves obeying His commands and abstaining from His prohibitions. A humble individual does not rebel against Allah in areas where He has prohibited. Humility is crucial as it aligns with Allah's rida and is a vital virtue emphasized in the 88th ayah of Surah Al-Hijr, where it is stated, "Be humble to the believers."
• humility towards those whom Allah has commanded us to show humility, including the Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam), scholars, and one's parents. Being humble towards these individuals is highly recommended.
• humility towards other people. Treating others with humility reflects a commendable character. Islam emphatically calls upon believers to embrace this virtue as evidenced by the aforementioned ayah of the Qur'an and the hadith we have discussed.

By practicing humility, a person elevates themselves in both the worldly and spiritual realms. Even if one does not consider themselves worthy of the elevated ranks in the sight of Allah, their humility guides them to those heights. Imam Qurtubi (rahmatullahi alayh) explains:

"Allah elevates the value of a humble person in the hearts of others, makes them mentioned with respect, and preserves their high status in the Hereafter."

Finally, it is essential to address a common misconception regarding humility. Displaying humility towards oppressors, disbelievers, those engrossed in worldly pursuits, and the arrogantly wealthy is an error and contradicts the honor of a believer. Such humility, instead of leading to elevation in the sight of Allah, may result in abjection.

Harun Tanır