True humility goes far beyond simple behavior. It is a deep state of mind that serves as the very foundation for both physical and spiritual perfection. The primary approach among commentators is that humility triggers a natural, causal process. When a person genuinely observes reality, recognizes their own smallness, and feels entirely insignificant compared to the vastness of God's creation, a profound sense of awe is born. This deep awareness naturally leads to a fear of God and a strong desire to avoid violating His will [רלב״ג, מלבי״ם, מצודת דוד, עמנואל הרומי]. In this way, one positive character trait directly brings about another [אבן עזרא]. However, a contrasting perspective suggests that humility is the ultimate root, making even the fear of God secondary to it, serving merely as a stepping stone for the supreme trait of humility [רש״י].
When a person successfully combines humility with the fear of God, they earn a threefold reward of wealth, honor, and life. On a physical and social level, God grants material abundance and elevates the individual measure for measure. Because a humble person does not seek to promote himself, God chooses to lift him up [מלבי״ם]. Furthermore, someone who remains humble and careful to avoid sin, even after achieving personal growth, is uniquely suited to handle wealth. For such a person, there is no danger that material success will lead to arrogance or rebellion against God [אלשיך]. By remaining content with their lot and avoiding conflict, the humble person naturally wins the respect of others and enjoys a peaceful, quiet, and long life [עמנואל הרומי, אבן עזרא].
Beyond the material world, this reward carries deep spiritual and intellectual meaning. Wealth is understood not merely as money, but as an abundance of wisdom. Unlike arrogant individuals who look down on learning, a humble person is always willing to lower himself to learn from others. Honor extends beyond social respect to include the dignity of the soul after death in the company of the righteous. Similarly, life refers to more than just a long physical existence under God's care; it points to the eternal life of the soul in the world to come [עמנואל הרומי, מלבי״ם, אלשיך]. Looking at this from another angle, these rewards can be seen as two parallel paths. Through humility, a person earns wealth and honor from society and the wise who value this rare trait. Meanwhile, through the fear of God, that same person secures life, both in the present world and in eternity [עמנואל הרומי].