Is the modesty in the Prophet’s (peace and blessings be upon him) saying, “Modesty is a branch of faith,” intended to mean shyness?

Question:
May Allah reward you. Honorable Shaykh, this questioner says: Does the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) mean by his saying, "Modesty is a branch of faith," that it is shyness?

Answer:
No, shyness is a form of weakness. What is meant is that which prevents one from doing what is inappropriate. This is the praiseworthy and good kind of modesty, and it is what causes a person to be discreet and not expose himself. This is the praiseworthy modesty. As for that which prevents one from asking the scholars or seeking knowledge, that is shyness, weakness, and cowardice; it is a form of cowardice. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) sought refuge with Allah from cowardice. Yes.