“You are neglectful of the greatest worship: being humble,” said our mother Aisha, may Allah be pleased with her. (Az-Zuhd, 1/132)
She knew the great importance of this characteristic very well from the Prophet ﷺ who said: “Allah revealed to me that [we must] be humble, so that a person does not see himself better than others, and so that no one oppresses anyone else.” (As-Silsilah as-Sahihah, #570)
[Also read: ‘What if I’m not as religious as you?’]
Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah be pleased with him, said: “Good is not to have a lot of wealth or children. Good is to increase in your knowledge and forbearance and to not show off to people in your worship. If you do good, you thank Allah the Most High. If you do wrong, you seek Allah the Most High’s forgiveness.” (Al-Hilya, 1/75)
Ibrahim ibn Shaibaan (d. 337 AH), may Allah have mercy on him, said: “Honor is in being humble, greatness is in having taqwa, and freedom is in being content [with what you have].” (Madarij as-Salikeen)
And al-Hasan al-Basri said: “Do you know what being humble means? It means that you leave your house and do not come across another Muslim except that you feel that he is better than you [in some way].” (At-Tawadu’ wal Khumool)
[Also read: Shukr (Gratitude) and how it differs from Hamd (praise)]
Dr. Bilal Philips