The concept of humility, therefore, has roots in the idea of being grounded, humble, and connected to the earth. This was contrasted with arrogance and pride, which were seen as being "above" or "detached" from the natural world.
The word "humility" was first used in English in the 14th century, and it quickly gained popularity as a virtue associated with religious and moral values. It was considered a key aspect of Christian teachings, with Jesus being held up as the epitome of humility.
Over time, the meaning of "humility" has evolved slightly. While it still retains the core concept of being humble and unassuming, it now also encompasses qualities like self-awareness, modesty, and a lack of pretension.
Here's a summary of the word's lineage:
* Latin: *humus* (earth, ground)
* Latin: *humilitas* (lowliness, groundness)
* English: *humility* (lowliness, modesty, lack of pretension)