Meaning: The quote "The word of God teacheth lowliness of mind; it teacheth us to know ourselves" is attributed to John Jewel, an English bishop and theologian who lived during the 16th century. As a prominent clergyman of the Anglican Church, Jewel was known for his writings and sermons that defended the Protestant faith against the Roman Catholic Church. This particular quote reflects the teachings of humility and self-awareness as emphasized in the Christian scriptures.

In the context of the quote, "the word of God" refers to the teachings and principles found in the Bible, which is considered the holy scripture in Christianity. The concept of "lowliness of mind" is closely linked to the virtue of humility, a characteristic that is frequently extolled in the Bible. Throughout the Old and New Testaments, there are numerous passages that emphasize the importance of humility, such as Philippians 2:3-4 which states, "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others."

The quote also highlights the idea of knowing oneself, which is a fundamental aspect of self-awareness and introspection. In the Christian tradition, self-knowledge is often associated with recognizing one's own imperfections, weaknesses, and the need for redemption. This self-awareness is intertwined with the concept of repentance and the acknowledgment of one's reliance on God for guidance and forgiveness.

Furthermore, the teachings of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the Gospels, frequently emphasized the value of humility and the dangers of pride. For example, in Matthew 23:12, Jesus says, "Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." This admonition underscores the significance of adopting a humble disposition and recognizing one's limitations in the sight of God.

In Christian theology, humility is considered a foundational virtue that fosters a proper relationship with God and others. By acknowledging one's dependence on God and understanding one's own shortcomings, individuals are encouraged to approach life with a spirit of meekness and modesty. This approach is seen as a counterbalance to the pitfalls of arrogance and self-importance, which are viewed as detrimental to spiritual growth and moral character.

The quote attributed to John Jewel encapsulates the timeless message of humility and self-awareness that has been central to Christian teachings for centuries. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of embracing a humble mindset and seeking to understand oneself in light of divine truth. Through the word of God, individuals are called to cultivate a disposition of lowliness of mind and to engage in a continual process of self-examination and self-knowledge.

In summary, the quote "The word of God teacheth lowliness of mind; it teacheth us to know ourselves" reflects the enduring wisdom found in the Christian scriptures regarding the virtues of humility and self-awareness. It underscores the importance of embracing a humble mindset and gaining insight into one's own nature as part of the spiritual journey. This timeless message continues to resonate as a guiding principle for individuals seeking to live out their faith with authenticity and humility.