المعنى الاصطلاحي

Full obedience and submission to Allah out of love and glorification to Him and complete modesty with people out of mercy and kindness to them.

الشرح المختصر

"Tawādu‘" (modesty/humility) is a praiseworthy quality that reflects purity of the self. It prompts affection and brotherhood among people and repels envy and hatred from their hearts. "Tawādu‘" has several forms: some are related to the physical way a person manifests himself, as in walking and wearing cloth; others are related to the way a person manifests himself verbally, as in avoiding taking pride in one's ancestors and claiming knowledge. "Tawādu‘" is of two types: 1. "Tawādu‘" towards Allah, by obeying Him out of glorification and love to Him; and by submitting to His religion and following the truth delivered by His Messenger, may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him. 2. "Tawādu‘" towards people, so that a person considers himself lower than others in good characteristics.

التعريف اللغوي المختصر

"Tawādu‘": humility and manifestation of submissiveness (i.e. low estimate and weakness). Opposite: "istikbār" (arrogance), "‘uluww" (haughtiness). Derived from "wad‘", which means putting down and lowering. Other meanings: humbleness, easiness, gentleness.

التعريف

To show humility and absence of conceit.