The Essence of Humility and Modesty

Words of Namo Amituofo. Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

December 28, 2024, Noon Offering.

Amitabha Buddha's discourse:

The Origins of Our Temperament

Humility and modesty are an essential, integral part of one's true temperament. The formation of our character is a gradual process, shaped throughout our growth by the environment we inhabit, the education we receive, the people we encounter, and the way we choose to handle the various problems that arise in our daily lives.

When one grows up in a challenging environment, one learns to deeply appreciate the value of what is gained. Because these things are not easily obtained, one naturally feels a sense of gratitude, which manifests as humility and modesty. Furthermore, those who possess the wisdom to realise that there is always someone more capable, and that there are vast realms beyond our own limited perception, will naturally remain humble and modest, even when they possess exceptional talents or achievements.

The Hidden Dangers of Arrogance

Conversely, if one is raised in a privileged environment, or if one grows up surrounded by constant praise and applause for one's unique abilities and performances, the risk of developing arrogance is significant. If this pride takes root, one will drift further and further away from the virtues of humility and modesty. Those who are arrogant often do not realise they are trapped in this state of mind. In the context of spiritual practice, if one does not have a true spiritual friend to point out these faults and encourage one to change, it becomes extremely difficult to attain the state of an awakened being.

Arrogance is a manifestation of the ego—the "self" that is deeply entangled in karma. The very causes of this arrogance are rooted in our attachment to this false sense of self and our karmic patterns. We can see that an arrogant person is still a being bound by karma, still clinging to a rigid personality, and often fragile, suffering deeply from the cycle of gain and loss. When an arrogant person possesses talent, they often become trapped in their own subjectivity, stubbornly insisting on their own views. In their practice, this means that the Dharma cannot truly enter their heart. They remain confined within their own limitations, leaving little room for further progress.

The Wisdom of a Humble Heart

It is often only after experiencing repeated setbacks—when one realises that one's own strength is insufficient to face the changes of life—that one can finally let go of arrogance. Only then can one accept oneself as one truly is, turn towards humility and modesty, and find the strength to start anew. Arrogance also makes one highly susceptible to the manifestation of karma and the influence of attached spirits, which can lead the body into a crisis of premature ageing, illness, and suffering. Therefore, we counsel those who are arrogant to change their personality traits quickly, to stop this pride, and to cease harming both themselves and others. When one acts out of arrogance and hurts another, the one who suffers the most is, in truth, oneself.

Returning to the True Self

A person who embodies humility and modesty is able to hold others in their heart with deep respect, understanding that every being is a Buddha in the making. By respecting the Buddha-nature in others, one is simultaneously respecting one's own Buddha-nature. This practice allows one to:

• Nurture and expand one's own compassion.
• Prevent the arising of anger and resentment.
• Develop a temperament that is gentle and harmonious, free from sharp edges or conflict.
• Exist in a state of infinite potential, where one can always continue to improve and grow.

People naturally distance themselves from those who are arrogant, yet they feel a deep joy in the company of those who are humble and modest. Because the humble person is easily satisfied, they often carry a warm smile. Their capacity for tolerance allows them to accept the shortcomings or mistakes of others with a gentle and compliant nature. This temperament is perfectly in sync with our true self. As you continue your diligent practice, if you can listen to the teachings and change your ways, you will find it much easier to return to your original, true nature.

Namo Amituofo