The first time period in Classical Greek for lowliness of thoughts, meekness, or a modest view of oneself is tapeinophrosyn (). It combines tapeinos (), that means “low,” “humble,” or “base,” with phrn (), signifying “thoughts” or “coronary heart.” This compound phrase emphasizes a mindset characterised by a scarcity of conceitedness and an trustworthy appraisal of 1’s limitations.
This idea held important ethical and religious weight in historic Greek thought. It was regularly 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 throughout the bigger cosmos and an acceptance of the boundaries of human information and energy.