Humility

Humility is a moral virtue or quality based on a person assessing themselves accurately, without exaggerating or boasting about their abilities, wealth, or status. It stands in opposition to arrogance and self-aggrandizement.

Moral philosophy and psychology typically define humility along two dimensions: an internal one, consisting of recognition of the limits of one's knowledge and abilities, and an external one, concerning how one relates to others—listening, accepting counsel, and refraining from self-display.

Meaning of the term

In Somali, the word "hayin" refers to a person who is calm and does not boast. Other terms in use include "self-lowering" and "self-compassion." Somali proverbs frequently warn against arrogance.

Religious perspective

The world's major religions regard humility as a valued quality. Within Islam, humbling oneself before God and among people is a foundational principle, while arrogance is considered a trait to be condemned. Christianity and Buddhism likewise regard humility as essential to spiritual development.

Psychological perspective

Modern psychology classifies humility among character strengths. Researchers connect humility to intellectual humility—the acceptance that one can be wrong—and to the capacity for learning and conflict resolution. However, measuring humility is difficult, as it typically relies on self-report.