Modesty is True Humility

Blessed are the Meek, for they Shall Inherit the Earth.

Matthew 5:5

This teaching highlights that true greatness in the Kingdom of God comes not from assertiveness or self-promotion but from a humble and gentle spirit.

The Teaching of Modesty

Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. 1 Peter 3:3-4

Modesty is a quality deeply valued in the New Testament, reflecting a life lived in accordance with God's will. In Peter, we learn that true beauty is found not in external appearances but in the inner qualities of humility and gentleness—key aspects of modesty. Modesty is not merely about outward appearance but is also reflected in one's actions and devotion to God.

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves. Philippians 2:3

We should encourages believers to embody modesty and call for a life of humility and selflessness, rejecting vanity and promoting a spirit of modesty that values others above oneself.

Vanity is the Opposite of Modesty

Vanity is portrayed as a negative trait in the New Testament, associated with pride and self-centeredness. Jesus warned against seeking attention and honor for oneself.

Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. Matthew 6:1

This verse cautions against performing religious acts for the sake of public recognition, highlighting the pitfalls of vanity.

Similarly, Luke 18:9-14 presents the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, illustrating the danger of vanity. The Pharisee prays in a boastful manner, recounting his good deeds and looking down on others, while the tax collector humbly acknowledges his sinfulness and asks for God's mercy. Jesus concludes the parable with, "For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted." This teaching reinforces that vanity leads to spiritual downfall, while humility and modesty are rewarded by God.

In James 4:6, James writes, "But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: 'God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'" This verse highlights the contrast between pride and humility, emphasizing that vanity, characterized by pride, is opposed by God, whereas humility and modesty are met with divine favor.

Nature of Self

In the Gospel of Mary, the self is portrayed as having a divine origin and an inner light that connects it to the spiritual realm. Mary Magdalene speaks about the soul's journey and its connection to the divine. This reflects the belief that the true self is not merely the physical or egoic self but a divine essence that transcends worldly concerns.

“The soul is the inner light...the light that has come from the Father." Gospel of Mary

Mary teaches us that true knowledge comes from within and involves spiritual realization rather than external validation. For example, she shares insights she received from Jesus, revealing that the ultimate knowledge is about understanding the self’s spiritual nature and unity with the divine, not about accumulating material or worldly knowledge.

“The soul’s desire must not be bound to anything of this world. It should rise above the material and seek the higher, spiritual reality.”

The text suggests that overcoming attachment to the material world is essential for spiritual growth. Mary advises the disciples to rise above physical desires and fears, which are seen as distractions from spiritual truths. The Gospel reflects this sentiment when it describes how material attachments can lead the soul away from its true purpose.

“To be united with the divine, one must transcend the material world’s distractions. True unity with the divine is achieved through spiritual purity and detachment from worldly concerns.”

Mary discusses the soul’s journey through the powers of the material world, which are often depicted as obstacles to spiritual ascent. These powers are associated with the ego and its desires. Mary explains that the soul must overcome these powers to achieve spiritual liberation. This is illustrated by a vision where Mary describes the soul’s struggle against various forms of fear and desire, which are considered barriers to understanding higher spiritual truths.

"The soul, when it leaves the body, must face the rulers of the material world, who attempt to prevent its ascent. It must overcome their temptations and illusions to reach the divine realm.”

To reach spiritual enlightenment, one must reject the false self created by ego-driven desires and material concerns. Mary emphasizes that the true self is beyond these superficial layers and is aligned with the divine. For example, she conveys that those who seek to follow the path of spiritual enlightenment should focus on transcending the ego’s illusions and embracing the divine nature of their being.

“The false self, which is shaped by ego and worldly desires, must be cast aside. True spiritual knowledge comes from within, beyond the ego’s illusions.”

To be humble is to subdue our ego so that things are no longer all about us. Sometimes we make modesty about protecting the ego of others so that they do not feel uncomfortable, threatened, or small, and attack us in turn.

The Spiritual Importance of Modesty

The New Testament consistently teaches that modesty reflects a heart aligned with divine principles, while vanity indicates a focus on self and external validation. Modesty fosters humility, selflessness, and a deep sense of connection with God, leading to spiritual fulfillment and integrity. In contrast, vanity leads to a preoccupation with personal image and status, resulting in spiritual emptiness and disconnection from God's true purpose.

By embracing modesty, individuals align themselves with God's will, focusing on inner virtues and the well-being of others rather than seeking superficial recognition. This shift from vanity to modesty not only enhances personal spiritual growth but also fosters a more compassionate and harmonious community.

In conclusion, the New Testament guides believers to choose the path of modesty over vanity. Through teachings on meekness, humility, and selflessness, scripture encourages a life that values inner qualities and devotion to God, rather than the fleeting allure of external appearances and personal acclaim.