Why Do Wise People Always Remain Humble?

Humility is not self-deprecation. It is the expression of wisdom that recognizes one’s own limitations within an infinite universe. Isaac Newton, the father of modern physics, once said, "The more I study, the more I realize how ignorant I am." This sounds like a modest statement, but is it truly accurate? And if it is, does this make him wise or foolish? In his dharma talk on humility, Venerable Thich Chan Quang offers a profound perspective: humility is not low self-esteem, but rather the manifestation of wisdom.

### Humility Is Not Self-Deprecation

Many people mistakenly believe that humility means lowering oneself, living in isolation, or harboring feelings of inferiority. However, Venerable Chan Quang clarifies the true meaning. He states, "When you possess something superior to others yet do not consider yourself better than them, that is the virtue of humility." If a person lacks talent, status, or wealth, it is natural for them not to feel superior to anyone else. But when someone has talent, high status, and fame, yet still does not view themselves as above others and continues to respect everyone, that is true humility.

As Venerable Chan Quang teaches, "When you possess something superior to others yet do not consider yourself better than them, that is the virtue of humility."

### Humility Is the Expression of Wisdom

Why do those with wisdom feel increasingly ignorant as they learn more? Because they recognize that the universe holds countless unknowns. Those with limited understanding only see what lies below them, leading to arrogance and conceit. In his teaching, Venerable Chan Quang affirms, "Humility is an expression of wisdom. Arrogance is ignorance." Buddhism has long taught that our world, Saha, is just one among countless worlds, not the center of the universe. Through this understanding, practitioners cannot afford to be arrogant. Instead, they constantly perceive the transcendence of realities far beyond their own comprehension.

Venerable Chan Quang emphasizes, "Humility is an expression of wisdom. Arrogance is ignorance."

### Arrogance Leads to Loss of Blessings

Venerable Chan Quang also highlights the law of cause and effect (karmic law). The differences between people are not due solely to current talents, but stem from blessings from merit accumulated in past lives. When we rely on a single advantage, we cultivate arrogance, which damages our blessings from merit. As he says, "Arrogance leads to the loss of blessings." If we understand that every superiority we possess is the result of good karma from previous lives, we will cease to be proud. Instead, we will cherish these gifts and strive to cultivate even more wholesome causes.

He warns, "Arrogance leads to the loss of blessings."

### Practicing Humility in Daily Life

Humility is a practice, not a fixed state. It arises naturally whenever arrogance does not emerge. In daily life, we can cultivate this virtue through specific actions. We should always respect others, regardless of their perceived status. We must look for the strengths in others and remain open to learning continuously. It is vital to remember that all achievements come from conditions (dependent origination) and blessings from merit, not from an independent "self." Finally, we should contemplate the vastness of the universe and our own smallness within it.

Humility is not a destination but a dimension of wisdom. As we deepen our understanding and appreciate the beauty found in genuine spiritual practitioners, we realize our need to learn and show greater respect. Let us practice letting go of arrogance. Allow the mind/heart to expand like empty space, embracing everything without attachment.