How to Show Humility
Like the Prophet ﷺ
Humility, or tawāḍuʿ, is a defining characteristic of a believer and a cornerstone of the Prophetic character. It is a state of the heart that recognises one’s complete dependence on Allah, fostering a spirit of gratitude and preventing the poison of arrogance from taking root. The Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ was the ultimate embodiment of humility, teaching his followers that true greatness lies not in worldly status but in nearness to Allah. He ﷺ warned, “No one who has the weight of a mustard seed of arrogance in his heart will enter Paradise.” His Companions رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُمْ absorbed this lesson profoundly, and their lives became a testament to this noble virtue, demonstrating how to lead and serve with a heart bowed in submission to the Creator.
A powerful illustration of this Prophetic teaching is found in the life of the second Caliph, ʿUmar ibn al-Khaṭṭāb رضي الله عنه. Despite being the leader of a rapidly expanding and powerful state, he maintained a life of profound simplicity. When the Muslims conquered Jerusalem, a moment of immense historical significance, ʿUmar رضي الله عنه traveled to accept the keys to the city. He journeyed with a single servant, and they took turns riding their camel. As they approached the city gates, it was the servant’s turn to ride while ʿUmar رضي الله عنه, the mighty ruler, walked on foot, his clothes simple and patched. The Patriarch of Jerusalem, witnessing this incredible scene, recognized that this was the humble conqueror foretold in their scriptures. This act was not for show; it was the natural expression of a heart molded by the teachings of the Prophet ﷺ, a heart that understood all honor and victory belong to Allah alone.
Practical Applications:
Internalize Your Dependence on Allah:
Constantly reflect on the reality that every skill, success, and blessing you possess is a gift from Allah. This internal acknowledgment is the root of genuine humility and gratitude (shukr), which protects the heart from pride.
Serve Others Proactively:
Seek out opportunities to serve people, especially your family and those in need, without any expectation of recognition. The Prophet ﷺ himself would mend his own shoes, patch his own clothes and serve his household. True humility is demonstrated through selfless action.
Welcome Counsel and Criticism:
A humble person remains a student for life, open to learning from anyone. When you receive advice or constructive criticism, resist the urge to be defensive. Instead, listen with an open heart, recognizing it as an opportunity for growth and a means of taming the ego (nafs).
Attribute Success to Allah:
When you accomplish something, consciously guard your tongue and heart from boasting or self-praise. Make it a habit to say “Alḥamdulillāh” and attribute all success to Allah’s grace and mercy. Let your good character speak for itself.
Humility is a profound act of worship that purifies the soul and elevates one’s rank with Allah. By striving to emulate the perfect example of the Prophet ﷺ and his noble Companions, we can cultivate this beautiful trait, which brings peace to the heart, earns the love of others and is a sign of true faith.
May Allah grant us the humility of His beloved Prophet ﷺ and his Companions, and may He purify our hearts from all traces of arrogance. Āmīn.
May Allah grant us the ability to follow this guidance. Āmīn.
