“And the man Moses was very humble, more than any person on the face of the earth.” (Num. 12:3)
We are used to regarding humility as a moral attribute in interpersonal relationships, but one can also take note of intellectual humility, expressed through such qualities as being able to cast doubt on commonly accepted views, being willing to recognize the legitimacy of other views, and being ready to change one’s own view in the face of new evidence or changed circumstances.
I suggest that we think as well about theological humility, viewing Scripture and religious traditions as the product of human contact with the divine. Since classical Judaism is founded on divine revelation, it is not easy to describe sacred literature in such fashion, but if we view revelation as an encounter between God and human beings, we can approach Scripture with “critical eyes,” recognizing that no religion has “a monopoly on the truth,” without giving up our commitment to our rich spiritual tradition! Furthermore, such humility encourages interreligious dialogue that is fruitful, creative, and meaningful.
