Significance of Great humility
Great humility is a profound trait emphasized across various philosophical traditions, including Jainism, Vaishnavism, Purana, Vedanta, and Kavyashastra. It embodies a deep sense of modesty, respect, and recognition of one's position, especially in the presence of the divine. This quality manifests in respectful communication, self-effacement, and the attitude of individuals who demonstrate reverence towards others, including spiritual figures. Great humility fosters spiritual growth and helps acknowledge one's limitations, promoting sincere connections with the divine and others.
Synonyms: Modesty, Humbleness, Meekness, Self-effacement, Lowliness
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Great humility'
Great humility in Hinduism embodies profound modesty, reverence, and self-effacement, often seen in the respect shown by individuals toward revered figures and the divine, reflecting acknowledgment of one's own limitations and fostering sincere, respectful interactions.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) A profound sense of modesty and lack of arrogance exhibited by Guha in his response to Bharata.[1] (2) The attitude exhibited by King Janaka when addressing the holy sages, demonstrating his respect and reverence.[2] (3) The condition of being humble, demonstrated by King Vishvamitra as he bows to Shri Vasishtha.[3] (4) The respectful demeanor exhibited by Shatrughna towards Rama and others as he takes his leave.[4] (5) The manner in which King Trishanku approaches the sons of Shri Vasishtha, acknowledging their status.[5]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The profound respect and submissive attitude shown by Duryodhana when attending to Durvasa and his needs.[6] (2) The quality of being modest and unassuming, displayed by Yudhishthira as he approaches Bhishma.[7] (3) A significant level of modesty, where one does not consider themselves superior to others.[8] (4) Describes Avindhya's demeanor when he presents Sita to Rama, depicting respect and deference.[9]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A brief moment exhibited by Mahisha when he sought to pacify the sage after being cursed.[10] (2) The attitude displayed by King Camatkara when he approached the Brahmanas for help.[11] (3) A state of self-effacement and respectfulness exhibited by individuals in the presence of revered persons or sages.[12]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) A state of profound modesty exhibited by Vamadeva when conversing with Karttikeya.[13] (2) The reverent attitude exhibited by Vishnu and others when they bow before Parvati upon her arrival.[14] (3) The respectful attitude of Daksha when he welcomed Shiva.[15]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) The demeanor adopted by the wicked king after facing defeat, as he acknowledges the power of the Brahmans.[16] (2) An expression of deep respect and submission shown by characters while addressing the Muni.[17]
From: Bhagavata Purana
(1) A profound sense of modesty and respect, especially in the presence of the divine.[18]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A significant level of modesty or lack of pride, especially in relation to one's feelings or status in the presence of the Lord.[19] (2) A profound sense of modesty and lack of arrogance in one's demeanor.[20] (3) The manner in which the leper spoke, characterized by deep respect and modesty.[21] (4) Refers to the profound sense of modesty and lack of pride that the brothers demonstrate in their demeanor while addressing the Lord.[22] (5) The manner in which Mukunda Mahashaya addresses the Lord, showcasing his respect and reverence.[23]
From: Prem Sagar (English translation)
(1) Describes Akrura's respectful and modest demeanor when greeted Krishna.[24] (2) The attitude exhibited by Krishna and Balarama when addressing their spiritual preceptor.[25] (3) The attitude with which the cowherds approach others when asking for food, emphasizing modesty and respect.[26]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) A sincere attitude of reverence when praying for help in overcoming material distractions.[27] (2) An intense and profound sense of humility reflecting deep respect and recognition of one's own position before the divine.[28]
From: Chandogya Upanishad (english Translation)
(1) A significant attitude that helps one recognize their own shortcomings and seek knowledge with an open heart.[29] (2) Highlights the attitude of both leaders as they approach Prajapati, setting aside their royal status in pursuit of knowledge.[30] (3) Great humility reflects the manner in which sense organs now defer to the chief prana, admitting they have no qualities by themselves.[31] (4) The respectful attitude adopted by the other organs when appealing to prana not to abandon them.[32]
From: Sahitya-kaumudi by Baladeva Vidyabhushana
(1) A quality linked with much fame, suggesting that an individual with great humility is typically well-regarded.[33] (2) Describes the humble demeanor exhibited by Krishna, which is essential in approaching another character, reflecting intimate love.[34]
Jain concept of 'Great humility'
Great humility in Jainism, exemplified by Tishyaka, denotes a modest character essential for spiritual progress, reflecting the belief that humility fosters deeper understanding and ethical development on the path to enlightenment.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) A trait exhibited by Tishyaka which signifies his modest character, leading to spiritual advancements.[35]