The Litany of Humility stands as one of the most challenging yet transformative prayers in Christian spirituality. This powerful devotional practice has guided countless believers toward deeper selflessness and spiritual growth for over a century. Unlike many prayers that ask for blessings or protection, the Litany of Humility takes a radically different approach—it asks God to strip away our pride, desires for recognition, and attachment to worldly approval.
This comprehensive guide explores every aspect of this remarkable prayer, from its historical origins to its practical application in modern spiritual life. Whether you’re encountering the Litany of Humility for the first time or seeking to deepen your understanding of its profound teachings, this article provides the knowledge and tools you need to embrace this path of humility and divine assistance.
What is the Litany of Humility?
The Litany of Humility is a Catholic prayer that systematically addresses human pride and the desire for worldly recognition. Written in the late 19th century, this prayer consists of a series of petitions that ask Jesus to deliver us from various forms of pride and to grant us the grace to embrace true humility.
Unlike traditional litanies that invoke saints or ask for particular favors, the Litany of Humility focuses entirely on renunciation—the deliberate giving up of our attachment to praise, success, and being preferred over others. The prayer’s structure follows a call-and-response format, making it suitable for both private prayer and communal worship.
Core Structure and Format
The Litany of Humility follows a distinctive pattern:
- Invocation: “O Jesus, meek and humble of heart”
- Petitions for deliverance: From various forms of pride and worldly desires
- Requests for virtues: For the grace to embrace humility and charity
- Concluding prayer: A final petition for divine assistance in growing in holiness
Each petition begins with either “From the desire of…” or “That others may…” followed by the congregational response “Jesus, deliver me” or “Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it.”
Historical Background and Origins
Who Wrote the Litany of Humility Prayer?
The Litany of Humility was composed by Cardinal Rafael Merry del Val (1865-1930), a Spanish-English cardinal who served as Secretary of State under Pope Pius X. Born into an aristocratic family, Cardinal Merry del Val understood firsthand the temptations of worldly honor and recognition that the prayer addresses.
Cardinal Merry del Val wrote this prayer as a personal spiritual exercise during his time in Rome. His deep understanding of human nature and the subtle ways pride manifests in our lives is evident throughout the prayer’s carefully crafted petitions.
Historical Context
The late 19th and early 20th centuries were periods of significant social and political upheaval. Cardinal Merry del Val witnessed the rise of modernism within the Church and the increasing secularization of European society. In this context, the Litany of Humility served as a counter-cultural statement, emphasizing selflessness and spiritual growth over worldly achievement and recognition.
The prayer gained popularity through its use in seminaries and religious communities, where it was recognized as a powerful tool for combating the pride that can afflict those in positions of religious authority.
Deep Analysis of the Prayer Text
Opening Invocation: “O Jesus, Meek and Humble of Heart”
The prayer begins by invoking Jesus specifically in His aspect of humility. This reference draws from Matthew 11:29, where Jesus says, “Learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart.” By addressing Christ in this manner, the prayer establishes the theological foundation that true humility is not weakness but rather conformity to the divine nature of Jesus.
This opening also serves as a reminder that humility is not merely a human virtue but a participation in the very character of God. The phrase “make my heart like unto Thine” expresses the fundamental Christian aspiration of theosis—becoming like God through divine assistance and grace.
Petitions for Deliverance from Pride
The heart of the Litany of Humility consists of seventeen petitions asking for deliverance from various manifestations of pride:
Desires for Recognition and Praise
The prayer addresses our natural human desire for:
- Being esteemed
- Being loved
- Being extolled
- Being honored
- Being praised
- Being preferred to others
- Being consulted
- Being approved
These petitions recognize that the human heart naturally seeks validation and recognition from others. The prayer doesn’t condemn these desires as inherently evil but acknowledges that attachment to them can become obstacles to spiritual growth.
Fears of Rejection and Failure
The litany also addresses our fears of:
- Being humiliated
- Being despised
- Being forgotten
- Being wronged
- Being suspected
- Being ridiculed
These petitions acknowledge that our pride often manifests not just in seeking praise but in avoiding any form of criticism or rejection. True humility requires the courage to face these experiences without bitterness or resentment.
Positive Petitions for Grace
The second half of the prayer shifts from renunciation to positive requests for grace:
- That others may be loved more than I
- That others may be esteemed more than I
- That others may increase and I may decrease
- That others may be chosen and I may be set aside
- That others may be praised and I may be unnoticed
- That others may be preferred in everything
- That others may become holier than I
These petitions represent the most challenging aspect of the Litany of Humility. They ask for the grace to genuinely desire the good of others even when it means our own diminishment in worldly terms.
What is the Litany of Humility Meaning?
Theological Significance
The Litany of Humility meaning extends far beyond simple self-deprecation or low self-esteem. At its core, this prayer represents a profound theological statement about the nature of Christian discipleship and the path to holiness.
Biblical Foundation
The prayer draws heavily from biblical references, particularly:
- John 3:30: “He must increase, but I must decrease”
- Matthew 23:12: “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted”
- Philippians 2:3-4: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves”
These scriptural foundations demonstrate that humility is not a peripheral Christian virtue but central to the Gospel message itself.
The Paradox of Christian Humility
The Litany of Humility embodies the fundamental Christian paradox that greatness comes through service and exaltation through humility. This concept challenges worldly values that equate worth with achievement, recognition, and success.
Psychological and Spiritual Insights
Liberation from the Tyranny of Opinion
One of the most profound aspects of the Litany of Humility meaning is its potential to liberate practitioners from what the Desert Fathers called “the tyranny of human opinion.” By systematically renouncing our attachment to others’ approval, we become free to serve God and others without the constant anxiety about how we are perceived.
Authentic Self-Knowledge
The prayer promotes genuine self-knowledge by helping us recognize the subtle ways pride operates in our lives. Many people consider themselves humble while simultaneously harboring deep attachments to recognition and approval. The Litany of Humility serves as a spiritual mirror, revealing these hidden attachments.
How to Pray the Litany of Humility?
Preparation for Prayer
Before praying the Litany of Humility, consider these preparatory steps:
- Choose an appropriate time: Select a moment when you can pray without distraction
- Prepare your heart: Acknowledge your need for divine assistance in growing in humility
- Set realistic expectations: Understand that this prayer may be challenging initially
- Invoke the Holy Spirit: Ask for grace to pray with sincerity
Methods of Prayer
Private Recitation
When praying alone, take time to pause after each petition and reflect on its meaning. Consider specific situations in your life where this particular aspect of pride has manifested.
Steps for private prayer:
- Begin with the Sign of the Cross
- Recite the opening invocation slowly and meditatively
- Pray each petition with intentionality
- Conclude with a moment of silent reflection
- End with a prayer of thanksgiving
Communal Prayer
The Litany of Humility works particularly well in group settings, where the call-and-response format engages all participants:
- Leader: Recites the petitions
- Community: Responds with “Jesus, deliver me” or “Jesus, grant me the grace to desire it”
- Rhythm: Maintain a steady, prayerful pace
- Silence: Include brief moments of silence between sections
Frequency and Consistency
Daily Practice
Many spiritual directors recommend praying the Litany of Humility daily, particularly:
- As part of morning prayer
- Before important meetings or decisions
- When experiencing criticism or rejection
- During periods of spiritual dryness
Seasonal Observances
The prayer is particularly appropriate during:
- Lent: As a tool for spiritual renunciation
- Advent: In preparation for celebrating Christ’s humility in the Incarnation
- Retreats: As a foundation for deeper spiritual reflection
What are the Benefits of the Litany of Humility?
Spiritual Benefits
Growth in Virtue
Regular prayer of the Litany of Humility cultivates numerous Christian virtues:
- Patience: Learning to accept criticism without defensiveness
- Kindness: Genuinely rejoicing in others’ success
- Charity: Love that seeks the good of others above self
- Endurance: Persevering through difficulties without bitterness
- Modesty: Appropriate self-assessment and behavior
Deeper Union with Christ
The prayer facilitates closer conformity to Jesus, who “emptied himself, taking the form of a servant” (Philippians 2:7). By embracing humility, practitioners participate more fully in the mystery of the Incarnation.
Freedom from Spiritual Pride
Perhaps most importantly, the Litany of Humility serves as an antidote to spiritual pride—the subtle form of pride that can afflict those who are serious about their faith. By regularly acknowledging our need for grace and our desire for recognition, we remain grounded in our dependence on God.
Psychological Benefits
Reduced Anxiety and Stress
Attachment to others’ opinions creates significant psychological stress. The Litany of Humility gradually reduces this attachment, leading to:
- Greater emotional stability
- Reduced sensitivity to criticism
- Less anxiety about performance and appearance
- Increased resilience in facing setbacks
Improved Relationships
Humility naturally improves our relationships with others:
- Decreased competitiveness: Less need to compare ourselves to others
- Increased empathy: Greater capacity to understand and support others
- Better listening skills: Reduced self-focus allows for genuine attention to others
- Authentic communication: Freedom from the need to impress others
Social and Community Benefits
Leadership Development
Paradoxically, the Litany of Humility often develops better leaders. Humble leaders are:
- More trusted by their teams
- Better listeners and decision-makers
- More willing to acknowledge mistakes
- Focused on serving rather than being served
Community Building
Communities that embrace humility experience:
- Reduced conflict and competition
- Increased cooperation and mutual support
- Greater focus on mission rather than personalities
- More welcoming environments for newcomers
Practical Resources and Tools
Litany of Humility PDF and Downloads
Several resources are available for those seeking to incorporate this prayer into their spiritual practice:
Litany of Humility PDF Options
- Traditional Format: Full text with responses clearly marked
- Pocket Version: Condensed format for easy carrying
- Large Print: Accessible version for elderly or visually impaired
- Bilingual Editions: Available in multiple languages
Litany of Humility Download Resources
Free downloadable resources include:
- Audio recordings with proper pronunciation
- Musical settings for congregational singing
- Study guides with reflection questions
- Litany of Humility Prayer Card designs
Litany of Humility Printable Materials
Prayer Cards
Litany of Humility Prayer Card options:
- Wallet-sized cards for daily carry
- Bookmarks with decorative designs
- Laminated versions for durability
- Customizable templates for groups
Devotional Materials
- Daily reflection booklets
- Retreat handouts
- Small group study guides
- Children’s adaptations
Digital Resources
Mobile Applications
Several Catholic prayer apps include the Litany of Humility:
- Features: Audio playback, reminder notifications, progress tracking
- Customization: Personal prayer times, feast day reminders
- Community: Shared prayer intentions and reflections
Online Communities
Digital platforms offer opportunities for:
- Group prayer sessions via video conference
- Discussion forums for sharing experiences
- Spiritual direction through online platforms
- Resource sharing among practitioners
Integration with Other Spiritual Practices
Complementary Prayers
The Litany of Humility pairs well with other traditional Catholic prayers:
Litany of Trust
The Litany of Trust complements the Litany of Humility by addressing our fears and anxieties while building confidence in God’s providence. Praying both litanies together creates a balanced approach to spiritual growth.
Short Prayer for Humility
For those seeking a briefer devotion, several short prayer for humility options exist:
“Lord Jesus, meek and humble of heart, make my heart like unto Yours.”
“God, help me to desire nothing but Your will and Your glory.”
“Grant me the grace to serve others without seeking recognition.”
Integration with Lectio Divina
The Litany of Humility can enhance the practice of Lectio Divina (divine reading):
- Lectio: Read a Gospel passage about Christ’s humility
- Meditatio: Reflect on how the passage challenges your own pride
- Oratio: Pray the Litany of Humility as a response
- Contemplatio: Rest in God’s love and grace
Sacramental Preparation
The prayer serves as excellent preparation for:
Confession
The Litany of Humility helps identify subtle sins of pride that might otherwise go unnoticed in examination of conscience.
Eucharist
By cultivating humility, the prayer prepares the heart to receive Christ worthily, echoing the centurion’s words: “Lord, I am not worthy…”
Advanced Spiritual Considerations
Discernment and Balance
Avoiding False Humility
True humility must be distinguished from:
- Self-deprecation: Putting oneself down for attention
- False modesty: Denying obvious gifts and talents
- Scrupulosity: Excessive focus on personal faults
- Passivity: Using humility as an excuse for inaction
Recognizing Authentic Humility
Genuine humility manifests as:
- Honest self-assessment without comparison to others
- Gratitude for gifts received while acknowledging their source
- Service to others without expectation of recognition
- Acceptance of both praise and criticism with equanimity
Spiritual Direction
Working with a Director
A qualified spiritual director can help:
- Identify specific areas where pride manifests
- Suggest practical exercises for growing in humility
- Discern between true and false humility
- Provide encouragement during difficult periods of growth
Self-Examination Questions
Regular reflection on these questions can deepen the practice:
- When do I most struggle with the need for recognition?
- How do I react when others are praised instead of me?
- What fears about others’ opinions control my behavior?
- Where is God calling me to greater selflessness?
Modern Applications and Relevance
Social Media and Digital Age Challenges
The Litany of Humility addresses contemporary challenges:
Online Validation
Social media creates unprecedented opportunities for seeking validation through:
- Likes and shares on posts
- Follower counts and engagement metrics
- Public recognition and viral content
- Comparison with others’ curated presentations
The prayer’s petitions for deliverance from the desire for praise and approval directly address these modern temptations.
Professional Life
In competitive work environments, the Litany of Humility helps maintain proper perspective:
- Recognition: Balancing achievement with humility
- Advancement: Desiring success without attachment to status
- Teamwork: Genuinely celebrating others’ contributions
- Leadership: Serving rather than seeking to be served
Cultural Relevance
Counter-Cultural Message
In cultures that emphasize individual achievement and self-promotion, the Litany of Humility offers a radically different approach:
- Success redefinition: Measuring worth by service rather than achievement
- Identity formation: Finding security in God’s love rather than others’ approval
- Relationship building: Prioritizing others’ good over personal advancement
- Authentic living: Freedom from the exhausting need to maintain image
Can I Pray a Litany Alone?
Individual Practice
Yes, you can absolutely pray a litany alone. While litanies were traditionally designed for communal worship, private recitation is not only acceptable but often deeply beneficial for spiritual growth.
Advantages of Private Prayer
Personal prayer of the Litany of Humility offers unique benefits:
- Deeper personalization: Ability to pause and reflect on specific petitions
- Honest self-examination: Freedom to acknowledge personal struggles without embarrassment
- Flexible timing: Adaptation to personal prayer schedules and rhythms
- Intimate dialogue: Direct conversation with Jesus about personal pride and desires
Techniques for Solo Practice
Effective methods for individual recitation include:
- Slow, meditative pace: Allow time for each petition to resonate
- Journaling integration: Write reflections after particularly challenging petitions
- Scripture meditation: Pair petitions with relevant biblical references
- Breath prayer: Coordinate petitions with breathing for deeper focus
- Visual aids: Use icons or images of Christ to maintain focus
Adaptations for Personal Use
Response Modifications
When praying alone, you might:
- Speak both the petition and response aloud
- Pray the response silently after each petition
- Create personal variations that resonate with your spiritual needs
- Add spontaneous prayers after formal petitions
What is the Mantra for Humility?
Understanding Mantras in Christian Context
A mantra for humility in Christian spirituality refers to a brief, repetitive prayer phrase that helps cultivate humility throughout the day. While “mantra” originates from Eastern traditions, Christians have long used similar practices called “aspirations” or “breath prayers.”
Traditional Christian Humility Mantras
Primary Options
“Lord Jesus, meek and humble of heart, make my heart like unto Yours.”
- This classic prayer directly invokes Christ’s humility
- Can be repeated throughout the day during various activities
- Particularly effective during moments of pride or irritation
“Jesus, I trust in You.”
- Simple expression of dependence on divine assistance
- Acknowledges our need for grace in all circumstances
- Cultivates humility through admission of personal limitations
“Not my will, but Yours be done.”
- Echoes Christ’s prayer in Gethsemane
- Promotes selflessness and submission to God’s plan
- Particularly powerful during difficult or frustrating situations
Contemporary Adaptations
“Help me desire only Your glory.”
- Focuses on proper motivation for actions
- Addresses the root of pride in seeking personal recognition
- Suitable for professional and ministry contexts
“Grant me the grace to serve without recognition.”
- Specifically targets the desire for praise and approval
- Prepares the heart for hidden acts of charity
- Effective before meetings, volunteer work, or family interactions
Integration into Daily Life
Practical Applications
Morning routine: Begin each day with a humility mantra Work transitions: Use brief prayers between tasks or meetings Difficult conversations: Silently invoke grace for patience and kindness Evening reflection: End the day acknowledging dependence on God’s love
What is a Powerful Prayer for Humility?
The Most Effective Humility Prayers
While the Litany of Humility stands as the most comprehensive prayer for humility, several other powerful options exist for different circumstances and needs.
Prayer of Humility Variations
Cardinal Merry del Val’s Personal Prayer
Beyond the famous litany, Cardinal Merry del Val composed this personal prayer of humility:
“O my God, I am nothing and can do nothing good without You. All that I am and all that I have comes from You. Keep me always humble and grateful for Your gifts, and help me to use them only for Your glory and the service of others.”
St. Teresa of Avila’s Humility Prayer
“Let nothing disturb you. Let nothing frighten you. All things pass. God does not change. Patience achieves everything. Whoever has God lacks nothing. God alone suffices.”
This prayer emphasizes:
- Endurance through difficulties
- Trust in God’s unchanging nature
- Patience as a fruit of humility
- Complete dependence on divine assistance
Modern Powerful Prayer for Humility
“Lord Jesus, You who washed the feet of Your disciples, teach me to serve others with joy. When I am tempted to seek praise or recognition, remind me that true greatness lies in selflessness. When I am criticized or ignored, help me to respond with grace and love. Make me an instrument of Your peace, seeking not to be consoled but to console, not to be understood but to understand, not to be loved but to love. Amen.”
Contextual Prayer Applications
Professional Settings
“God, help me to do excellent work not for personal recognition but for Your glory and the service of others. When others receive credit that might have gone to me, give me the grace to rejoice in their success.”
Family Relationships
“Lord, help me to put my family’s needs before my own desires. When tensions arise, grant me patience and kindness. Help me to love without keeping score of who does more or receives more appreciation.”
Ministry and Service
“Jesus, as I serve in Your name, protect me from spiritual pride. Help me to remember that any good accomplished through me comes from Your grace, not my abilities. Keep me focused on serving rather than being served.”
FAQS
How to pray the Litany of Humility?
Pray the Litany of Humility by reciting each petition, asking Jesus to deliver you from desires and fears that hinder your growth in humility.
What is the mantra for humility?
A common mantra for humility is “I am humble” or “I seek to serve,” focusing on selflessness and the importance of others.
What is a powerful prayer for humility?
A powerful prayer for humility is the Litany of Humility, which asks for grace to desire the good of others over oneself.
Who wrote the Litany of Humility prayer?
The Litany of Humility was written by Rafael Cardinal Merry del Val, who served as Secretary of State to Pope Saint Pius X.
What are the benefits of the Litany of Humility?
The benefits include fostering selflessness, deepening your relationship with God, and promoting inner peace and spiritual growth.
Can I pray a litany alone?
Yes, you can pray a litany alone; it can be a personal and meaningful way to connect with God and seek spiritual growth.
Which is the king of all mantras?
The “Gayatri Mantra” is often considered the king of all mantras, revered for its spiritual significance and transformative power.
How do I practice humility?
Practice humility by serving others, listening actively, and recognizing your limitations while appreciating the strengths of those around you.
What is the closing prayer for humility?
A closing prayer for humility often asks for God’s grace to maintain a humble heart and to serve others selflessly.
What psalm is the prayer for humility?
Psalm 51 is often associated with humility, emphasizing repentance and a contrite heart before God.
What is the Litany of Trust prayer?
The Litany of Trust is a prayer focusing on surrendering fears and anxieties to God, affirming trust in His divine providence.
How do you get a spirit of humility?
Cultivate a spirit of humility through prayer, self-reflection, and actively seeking to serve and uplift others in your daily life.
What is the Litany of Prayer?
The Litany of Prayer refers to a series of petitions or invocations directed to God, often recited in a communal or personal prayer setting.
How to pray the rosary?
Pray the rosary by reciting prayers while meditating on the mysteries of Jesus and Mary, using the beads to guide your prayer sequence.
What is the Litany of Gratitude?
The Litany of Gratitude is a prayer that expresses thankfulness to God for His blessings, focusing on recognizing and appreciating the good in life.
Conclusion: Embracing the Transformative Journey
The Litany of Humility represents far more than a simple prayer—it offers a comprehensive spiritual program for transformation. Through its systematic approach to addressing pride and cultivating selflessness, this remarkable prayer has guided countless believers toward deeper spiritual growth and authentic love for God and neighbor.
As we’ve explored throughout this comprehensive guide, the prayer’s power lies not merely in its words but in its capacity to reshape our fundamental attitudes toward recognition, success, and service. By regularly embracing the challenging petitions of the Litany of Humility, we gradually develop the virtue of humility that characterizes mature Christian discipleship.
The journey toward humility is neither quick nor easy. It requires patience, endurance, and constant reliance on divine assistance. Yet for those who persevere in this practice, the rewards are profound: freedom from the exhausting need for others’ approval, authentic relationships built on love rather than competition, and the deep peace that comes from knowing our worth is grounded in God’s unchanging love.
Whether you pray the Litany of Humility daily, use it during retreats, or turn to it in moments of particular struggle with pride, remember that each sincere petition opens your heart to receive the grace necessary for transformation. As Cardinal Merry del Val understood when he composed this prayer, true humility is not achieved through human effort alone but through the gift of divine grace working in cooperation with our sincere desire for holiness.
In our age of social media, constant comparison, and the relentless pursuit of recognition, the Litany of Humility offers a counter-cultural path to authentic happiness and spiritual fulfillment. By choosing to follow Jesus in His meekness and humility of heart, we discover that the way down is actually the way up, and that in losing our lives for His sake, we truly find them.
May this ancient prayer continue to guide modern believers toward the humility that leads to true greatness—the greatness of serving others in love, seeking God’s glory above our own, and finding our deepest identity not in what others think of us but in the unchanging reality of being beloved children of God.
Catherine Frank, founder of BiblicalHorizon.com, shares daily prayers and Bible verses to nurture spiritual growth. With a lifelong passion for scripture and prayer traditions, she creates accessible spiritual content that resonates with both seasoned believers and newcomers seeking divine connection.
