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Thursday, January 8, 2015

Etymology: Humble = Ground

I love my major, English Language. I am in a couple of fantastic classes in which I learn about the history of English words and meanings and sounds and so on. Sometimes, the etymology (the history of words) can be fascinating and inspiring. I learned in class today something significant about the word humble. The word is derived from the Latin word humus, which means ground and earth. My professor remarked that a person kneeling in prayer is showing their humility to God, that they recognize that they are "from the dust of the earth" compared to God's divine attributes. Yet, God still loves His children and wants to help them reach their full potential.

What a fascinating insight into a common word! When I pray, I will remember this meaning of the word humble. I am grateful for an increased knowledge of etymology and the great insights I receive about the English language.

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