Humbleness, an integral of Islamic teachings by Tijani Abdul-kareem

Being humble means recognizing that we are not on earth to see how important we can become, but to see how much difference we can make in the lives of others.

Humbleness they say, is the key to success. Rarely will you see a successful individual who is not humble. Humility is the true key to success.  Dwayne once said, “I’m always asked, ‘What’s the secret to success?’ But there are no secrets, Be humble, Be hungry, And always be the hardest worker in the room.” 

Islam is a unique religion that gives room to all positive values. Humbleness is one of the positive values Islam encourages. The prophet who was sent as a messenger to the world was very humble. This lead many to Islam. Despite conquering and leading the masses, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) doesn’t allow arrogance to eat him up. He didn’t use that as an excuse to exploit the poor. He became more humble while dealing with the minors. Once, a man came to the Messenger shaking with fear. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) upon seeing the man smiled and comforted him, saying: “Be at ease. I am not a king but the son of a Quraishite woman who used to eat dried meat.”

Furthermore, he was the first to greet children. With adults, if a man shook his hands he would not unclasp his hand till the other did first.

On journeys, the Prophet would work like the others. Once, his companion wanted to do the work for the Prophet. In response the Holy Prophet said, “I do not like to be treated as if I were privileged because God does not like any of His creatures to consider himself privileged or to be treated as if he were privileged over others.”

Indeed possessing the qualities of humility is what safeguards the human being from falling prey to haughtiness, discrimination and other vices that taint the human soul.

Therefore, the Holy Quran teaches believers to exhibit both humility and harmony so that they may be recognized as Allah’s servants. Allah the exalted said:

“The servants of the Merciful are they who walk on earth in humbleness, and when the ignorant address them, they say Peace.” Q25 vs 63

This is a verse of true serenity that can be achieved through humbleness. Consequently, it is this trait of humility which ironically glorifies that person who initially attempted to evade glory. This indeed is God’s handiwork who seeks to honor one who sought to humble himself before all. Undoubtedly, by humility, the Prophet was able to win hearts.

Among the people Allah promised Jannah are those who are humble. “Successful indeed are the believers who humble themselves in prayer.” As a muslim, you must belief all the good qualities you have are granted by Allah. You must also have it in mind that all your achievements and what you  had accumulated are from Allah. Humbleness is one of the virtues of beloved servants of the most Mercy.

It is totally wrong for a muslim to aggrandize blessings bestowed by Allah on him while forgetting it came from Allah. He was the one who fashioned us and provide us with our needs.”To Allah belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. And to Allah will [all] matters be returned.” Q3:109

In light of this, we can clearly see that humbleness is totally part of Islamic teachings. Prophet Muhammad who is the perfect role model for us,   practiced humility and transferred the same trait to his companions. The holy Qur’an teaches us to be humble. Allah commands all believers to be humble. “And be kind and humble to all the believers who follow you.” Qur’an 26 vs 215. On this note, we have to follow the teachings of the prophet and imbibe the teaching of the Holy Qur’an.