What is the definition of humility? The English Dictionary defines humility as, having a low self esteem of one's own importance. But Rav Yaakov Kaminetzky says to understand the Torah's definition of humility, we have to look at Moshe Rabbenu, who is described in Bamidbar 12, as exceedingly humble, more than any other person. But in Parashat Korach, Moshe's leadership is challenged by his very wise and highly respected cousin Korach. Moshe does not allow Korach to take his leadership from him, but stands up to Korach and declares that he, is the appointed leader of the Jewish People, and he will not step down from his position.

 

Now, if we would apply the English definition of humility to Korach's challenge to Moshe, it would appear that Moshe was not the most humble man on earth. The fact is that Moshe not only considered himself important enough to be recognized as the leader of his people, but also aggressively defended his right to that leadership. Obviously the Torah's understanding of humility differs from that of the English definition.

 

According to the Torah, true humility does not require a rejection of one's unique qualities and talents. Dismissing the importance of your abilities is a silly and false humility, because it is based on a false self-perception. True humility recognizes reality. A person who is humble knows his strengths, but recognizes that all his talents are given to him by G-D and are not a result of his own efforts. When a person experiences this true humility, it does not weaken his self esteem, nor does it cause him to reject his abilities and responsibilities, rather, it drives him to utilize the skills that G-D granted to him.

 

A humble person feels lowly in relation to others by recognizing that if G-D had given his talents to someone else, that person could have utilized these gifts better than he. However, the recognition that he has these talents and abilities remains.

 

If Moshe had backed down and relinquished his position as leader of the Jewish People, it would NOT have been a humble act. In the incident with Korach, Moshe's defense of his leadership was indeed the most humble approach he could have taken. G-D granted Moshe the position of and unique qualities for leadership. This position did not make Moshe feel that he was better than any other member of the Jewish People, but rather that he had the responsibility of leadership, because G-D gave it to him.

 

No other Prophet achieved the level of G-dly-revelation that Moshe did. This went together with Moshe being the most humble man to ever live, for humility allows G-D to be present.

 

When we consider our talents and skills to be our own creation, and our own accomplishments, then we leave little space for G-D in our lives. We must recognize that we are all custom designed and uniquely special, because G-D Personally picked us to exist in His world, and granted us our own individual package of talents and abilities. Only then are we able to live a truly happy and G-dly existence.