HUMILITY
The term humility has its root in the Latin word humus (earth); hence, humility means a state of being ‘down to earth’.
It is the quality or condition of being humble; modest opinion or estimate of one’s own importance, rank etc.
It can be defined as being ‘un-selved’, a liberation from consciousness of ‘self’, a form of temperance that is neither having pride (or haughtiness) nor indulging in self-deprecation.
In a religious context, humility means submission to God or deities, and a state of self-debasement.
Humility is an outward expression of self-regard; but it is not humiliation or shame which is imposed by others or is a result of some situation of failure, defeat or insult.
Humility is one of the greatest virtues to be achieved by a Sikh. A Sikh must get rid of ego and pride. The virtues like that of humility lead one to the candidature for liberation. It is one of the major steps, an ideal Sikh must adopt:
One who behaves like a low (person),
He is counted as highest among all.
Whose mind becomes the feet-dust of all,
He sees God’s Name in all bodies. (Guru Granth Sahib, p.266)
If one wants his well being
Ha should do virtuous acts and be called mean (low).
(Guru Granth Sahib, p.465)
Sweetness is in modesty and is the essence of all virtues.
(Guru Granth Sahib, p.470)
O Farid! if some one beats you with blows;
Do not beat him in turn.
Rather before leaving for your home kiss his feet.
O Farid! Be (like) grass on way;
If you desire for Master of all. (Guru Granth Sahib, p.1378)
(Dr Harjinder Singh Dilgeer)