Parenting Perspective 

Teaching children the virtue of humility is essential, but it must be approached carefully to avoid damaging their self-worth. True humility is not about self-deprecation or shame; it is about recognising the value of others while remaining grounded in one’s own. The key is to show your child that humility and confidence are not mutually exclusive. One shapes good character, while the other strengthens resilience. 

Defining Humility as a Balanced Strength 

Explain to your child that being humble means understanding your own value while also recognising that others are just as valuable. This simple definition frames humility as a form of equality, not self-diminishment, which prevents it from being mistaken for weakness. 

Building Confidence Through Affirmation 

When your child shows humility by apologising or admitting a mistake, affirm their character. You can say, ‘It takes a lot of courage to say sorry. That shows you are both strong and kind.’ Linking humility with bravery builds their confidence rather than eroding it. 

Practising Humility in Daily Actions 

Simple, everyday actions such as waiting their turn, speaking kindly, or listening without interrupting can be highlighted as practical examples of humility. Rather than criticising their failures, focus on praising their successes: ‘I noticed how you let your friend go first; that was a very humble and kind thing to do.’ 

Modelling a Humble Confidence 

It is crucial to show your child that you can be both confident and humble. For example, you might say, ‘I am proud of the hard work I put into this, but I also know I could not have done it without the help of others.’ Children learn best when they see their parents living with humility without sacrificing their dignity. 

By teaching humility as a state of balance, not self-erasure, you help your child develop into a person who is confident in their own abilities yet remains gentle, respectful, and considerate of others. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, humility is a mark of honour, never a source of humiliation. It does not diminish a believer’s worth; on the contrary, Allah Almighty elevates those who practise humility with sincerity. Together, confidence and humility form the foundation of an excellent Islamic character. 

Quranic Guidance on True Dignity 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Israa (17), Verse 37: 

‘And do not walk around the Earth in an insolent manner; indeed, as you will never be able to change the shape of the Earth, and you will never grow taller than the mountains.’ 

This powerful verse reminds us that arrogance is futile, whereas humility is what brings true dignity and balance to a person’s life. 

Prophetic Wisdom on the Reward for Humility 

It is recorded in Musnad Ahmad, Hadith 309, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘No one humbles himself for the sake of Allah except that Allah raises him in status.’ 

This hadith teaches a profound lesson: showing humility for the sake of Allah does not lead to a loss of status, but to an elevation in His sight. 

By linking humility to its esteemed place in Islamic teachings, you show your child that being humble does not mean thinking less of themselves, but rather thinking of themselves appropriately in relation to others and to God. They learn that confidence comes from inner strength, and humility ensures that this strength is always guided by kindness, respect, and faith.