"There often comes to them, through their imperfections, a certain kind of secret pride, whence they come to have some degree of satisfaction with their works and with themselves." St. John of the Cross discusses how beginners in spiritual practices often fall into the trap of pride. Despite the inherently humbling nature of spiritual exercises, these individuals may develop a 'secret pride' in their fervor and diligence. This pride manifests in a desire to teach rather than learn, and a tendency to judge others who do not share their level of devotion. Such pride can lead to a lack of genuine humility and a failure to recognize one's own imperfections. | St. John of the Cross | Dark Night of the Soul

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Spiritual Pride in Beginners

"There often comes to them, through their imperfections, a certain kind of secret pride, whence they come to have some degree of satisfaction with their works and with themselves." St. John of the Cross discusses how beginners in spiritual practices often fall into the trap of pride. Despite the inherently humbling nature of spiritual exercises, these individuals may develop a 'secret pride' in their fervor and diligence. This pride manifests in a desire to teach rather than learn, and a tendency to judge others who do not share their level of devotion. Such pride can lead to a lack of genuine humility and a failure to recognize one's own imperfections.

-- St. John of the Cross