Ask Osho!

What is the relationship between humility and ego in the context of respect?

Synthesized from Source definition

"True respect honors the divine within, while ego clings to the personal; humility arises when we recognize that reverence is not for the individual, but for the essence of existence itself."

According to Osho, genuine respect bows to the divine nature in a person, not to their personal identity; when respect is taken personally, it inflates ego, but when it is recognized as a salute to godliness, it deepens humility. Sin is mistaking the person for the source; virtue is remembering and awakening That, letting reverence spur inner search.
Respect the light inside people, not their small ‘me’—praise should make you humble, not proud.
Why this matters practically
- When praised, silently offer it to the inner divinity to prevent ego inflation.
- In honoring others, see their essence so your respect uplifts rather than feeds pride.
- Use every bow or compliment as a cue to deepen your own search for That.
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