Compassion

Compassion in the Bible is a profound expression of empathy and care that stems from a deep awareness of another's suffering. The Hebrew word most often translated as "compassion" is "racham," which conveys a sense of tenderness and nurturing, akin to the love a mother has for her child (Isaiah 49:15). In the New Testament, the Greek term "splagchnizomai," which literally means "to be moved in one's bowels," reflects an intense emotional response to the plight of others (Matthew 9:36). This concept highlights that compassion is not merely a feeling but is often accompanied by action to alleviate suffering.Biblical compassion is exemplified in the life of Jesus, who frequently demonstrated deep empathy for the marginalized and suffering, such as the sick and the oppressed (Mark 1:41; Luke 7:13). The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) encapsulates this idea, illustrating that true compassion transcends social boundaries and is manifested through acts of mercy. Moreover, believers are called to embody this compassion in their lives, as seen in Colossians 3:12, where Paul exhorts Christians to clothe themselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Thus, biblical compassion is both a divine attribute and a call to action for individuals to reflect God's love and mercy in their interactions with others.

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