"Fairest and best adorned is she Whose clothing is humility"

James Montgomery’s poetic lines “Fairest and best adorned is she / Whose clothing is humility” elegantly express the profound value placed upon humility as a virtue, not only in external presentation but at the very core of one’s being. Rather than extolling outward beauty, costly garments, or vanity, Montgomery suggests that true adornment lies in the quiet grace of humility, a quality that enriches far beyond the superficial.

Humility, as depicted here, becomes a kind of attire, a metaphorical garment that enhances the wearer more than silks or jewels ever could. To be “best adorned” isn’t a function of wealth or artifice; it is the inward disposition of modesty, gentleness, and respect for others. The lines imply that humility itself possesses a singular beauty, making the individual “fairest” in the truest sense, radiant with an inner light that cannot be acquired by outward embellishments.

Implicitly, there’s a subtle critique of societal values that prioritize physical appearance and ostentatious self-presentation. Montgomery redirects admiration towards the intangible qualities that withstand the test of time and shifting fashions. Humility here is celebrated as the ultimate adornment: it is timeless, universally admired, and reflective of deep moral character. By portraying a humble individual as the “fairest,” the poet challenges readers to reconsider their own understanding of beauty and worth.

There is also a spiritual or moral layer, suggesting that humility is ennobling and offers a deeper connection to virtue, truth, and perhaps even the divine. Whether in the context of religious teachings or broader philosophical traditions, humility has often been praised as a foundation for personal growth and harmonious social relationships. Montgomery’s words invite the reader to see past surface attributes and recognize that greatness and true beauty often manifest quietly, in self-effacing strength and gentle hearts.