Part 8 – Unšila (Humility): Honoring Others Above Self

Walking the Humble Path

In Lakota culture, Unšila — humility — is not weakness. It is strength of spirit. To be humble is to understand one’s place in the circle of life and to recognize that no one stands above another. The humble person is not silent out of fear but chooses not to boast, not to dominate, and not to claim power that does not belong to them. Humility is one of the most sacred of all Lakota values.

The Meaning of Unšila

Unšila teaches us to walk with respect — for our elders, our ancestors, the land, the animals, and all living beings. A humble person listens before they speak, prays before they act, and thanks the Creator for every blessing. Humility is not submission — it is reverence. It means leading with heart instead of ego.

Humility in Traditional Leadership

Traditional Lakota leaders were not self-appointed. They did not seek titles, wealth, or fame. They were chosen by their communities based on their actions, their generosity, their wisdom, and above all, their humility. A leader who boasted was seen as spiritually out of balance. A true leader walked at the back of the line, making sure everyone else was cared for.

The greatest praise a Lakota leader could receive was not applause, but the quiet confidence of the people — knowing he or she would do what was right, without needing recognition.

The Humility of Crazy Horse

Perhaps the most iconic example of Unšila is Crazy Horse, one of the most legendary Lakota warriors. He never allowed himself to be photographed. He refused ceremonial war honors. He didn’t speak in council unless necessary. Yet he fought fiercely for his people, guided by visions, and ultimately gave his life in the face of betrayal. He lived in service — not to himself, but to his people and the sacred truth he carried.

Unšila in Ceremony

Ceremonies such as the Inípi (sweat lodge) or the Sun Dance are entered with humility. Participants pray not for power, but for the well-being of others. They seek guidance, not control. In sacred spaces, the ego must be set aside so the spirit can lead. Humility is the gateway to spiritual growth.

Even when receiving a vision or spiritual gift, the humble Lakota practitioner never claims it as theirs. They serve as a vessel for the spirits — not the source. All gifts are to be shared with the people, not hoarded for status or gain.

Humility in Community Life

Unšila shows itself in everyday actions: speaking with respect, offering food before eating, acknowledging elders first, and helping others quietly without expecting thanks. It shows in the way we carry ourselves, avoid gossip, and handle conflict with grace. It reminds us to be careful with our words, to accept correction, and to walk gently through the world.

In times of hardship, the humble person does not blame others or complain — they give thanks for what they have and offer their strength where needed.

Teaching Unšila to Youth

Humility must be taught by example. Children who see adults argue for status, demand attention, or speak harshly will mimic those behaviors. But children who witness humility in action — caretaking, gratitude, listening, prayer — will carry those values forward.

Storytelling is also a powerful tool. Lakota stories often reward humble characters with spiritual gifts and show that arrogance leads to downfall. These stories teach that humility connects us to the earth, to each other, and to the sacred.

The Dangers of Ego

Modern society often promotes self-interest, attention-seeking, and competition. These values are in direct conflict with Unšila. When ego dominates, communities fracture, and spiritual health declines. It is humility that keeps the circle intact. Ego wants to be served. Humility serves.

Conclusion: The Foundation of Harmony

Unšila is not something we achieve once — it is something we return to again and again. It is a way of being that centers us, grounds us, and reminds us that all things are sacred — including ourselves, but not only ourselves.

A community that lives by humility builds trust, peace, and strength. A leader who lives by humility earns respect. A family that lives by humility creates harmony for generations.

The Lakota Way teaches us that the strongest person is not the loudest — but the one who remembers they are part of something greater than themselves.

External Resources

• Joseph M. Marshall III – The Lakota Way
• Native American Traditional Healers on Humility
• Pine Ridge Cultural Values Initiative

Mitákuye Oyás’iŋ – We are all related.