The first time period in Classical Greek for lowliness of thoughts, meekness, or a modest view of oneself is tapeinophrosyn (). It combines tapeinos (), which means “low,” “humble,” or “base,” with phrn (), signifying “thoughts” or “coronary heart.” This compound phrase emphasizes a mindset characterised by an absence of vanity and an sincere appraisal of 1’s limitations.
This idea held important ethical and religious weight in historic Greek thought. It was often lauded as a advantage, representing an antidote to hubris, the extreme pleasure usually related to tragic downfall in Greek literature. Embracing this high quality was considered as important for self-awareness, selling harmonious relationships, and fostering a receptiveness to studying and progress. It steered an understanding of 1’s place inside the bigger cosmos and an acceptance of the boundaries of human data and energy.
