Why would the early church have wanted to promote humility as a virtue?

Answer 1

From the Catholic encyclopedia:
"The word humility signifies lowliness or submissiveness an it is derived from the Latin humilitas or, as St. Thomas says, from humus, i.e. the earth which is beneath us. As applied to persons and things it means that which is abject, ignoble, or of poor condition, as we ordinarily say, not worth much."

Isn't it easier to control the masses if they feel the clergy are of a higher status and they are "not worth much"?

Answer 2

Humility is the state of being humble. In order for anyone to learn or be taught anything they must first be receptive of the knowledge in order to take it in. Imagine trying to tell a know-it-all something, it is near impossible. I think that the leaders of the church wanted the people to have an open mind to the teaching, so as to fully grasp the information, retain, meditate on it and understand it. I believe they wanted the people to be appreciative of the knowledge being passed along to them, so they would be able to pass it on to others.

Answer 3

The early Christian Church promotes humility because it show us not to think of our selves and to pay the due respect to God and the talents he gave us.

Answer 4

Humility means "teachable" so one would have to have humility or be teachable enough to actually learn. So many today have learning but are not teachable. Full of self-importance.

Answer 5

The word humility signifies lowliness or submissiveness - easier to control people who are this way.

Answer 6

Because Jesus of nazereth preached humility as a virtue.
Jesus is practical.

Humility can negate emnity.

Answer 7

Because Jesus is the model of humility.

Answer 8

Seems to me like it would make you more inclined to believe what they said and not ask questions.

Answer 9

Because they wanted sheep.