Significance of Mercy
Synonyms: Compassion, Clemency, Forgiveness, Leniency, Grace, Pity, Benevolence, Sympathy, Kindness, Charity
In Dutch: Genade; In Finnish: Armo
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Mercy'
Mercy in Buddhism embodies a compassionate attitude towards the suffering of others, fostering forgiveness and understanding. It transcends self-interest, rooted in the recognition and alleviation of pain experienced by individuals.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A form of compassion that is free from self-interest or attachment, found in the recognition and response to pain and suffering in others.[1]
From: Vinaya (3): The Cullavagga
(1) A compassionate disposition towards the suffering or missteps of others, promoting forgiveness and understanding.[2]
Hindu concept of 'Mercy'
In Hinduism, mercy embodies divine compassion, fostering forgiveness and kindness essential for spiritual progress. It reflects the compassionate nature of deities, prompting devotees' growth and emphasizing the benevolence vital for protection and salvation.
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A quality attributed to induce deliverance for the entire world.[3] (2) The compassionate and benevolent grace provided by Shri Caitanya that allows individuals to overcome suffering.[4] (3) Compassion or forgiveness shown towards someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm.[5] (4) Divine compassion and favor from Krishna that is granted to His true devotees, signifying the importance of sincere worship and respect for all aspects of devotion.[6] (5) The compassionate nature of Lord Vishnu when He chooses to reveal knowledge and guidance to individuals.[7]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A compassionate grace given, referred to as kripaya, often exemplified by the support or gifts received from enlightened beings.[8] (2) The compassionate benevolence bestowed by Bhagavan Shri Krishna, particularly evident in the relationship with Shri Brahma.[9] (3) Describes the compassion and kindness shown by the Bhagavan towards living beings, motivating Him to instruct them.[10] (4) The kind, compassionate favor of Shri Vasudeva that transformed Shri Parikshit's outlook and spiritual journey.[11] (5) The compassionate aspect of Shri Krishna that is questioned in the context of loss.[12]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Compassion or forgiveness shown towards someone, which is emphasized as a vital aspect in the context of Lord Nara-Narayana.[13] (2) Refers to 'daya', a quality of kindness and compassion towards others.[14] (3) A plea for compassion or kindness, often in a spiritual or divine context.[15] (4) Divine compassion and kindness shown by Lord Vishnu towards his devotees.[16] (5) Refers to the concept of compassion that the gopis question regarding their beloved.[17]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) The compassionate treatment extended by a higher power towards an individual, essential for overcoming spiritual and existential struggles.[18] (2) The compassionate disposition of Shri Bhagavan towards devotees, which is apparent in how they accept life's challenges as His grace.[19] (3) The compassion shown by Krishna, which can bring joy to His devotees.[20] (4) Compassion or forgiveness shown towards the speaker, which the speaker seeks from Nityananda.[21]
From: Srila Gurudeva (The Supreme Treasure)
(1) The benevolent grace bestowed by spiritual teachers, enabling devotees to grow in their practice and understanding.[22] (2) The spiritual grace expected from deities that Shrila Swami Maharaja sought for his disciples.[23] (3) The quality that Narottama dasa seeks from Shrinivasa Acarya and Ramacandra Kaviraja in his prayers.[24]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) A compassionate or forgiving treatment, crucial for achieving perfection.[25] (2) A quality that Ashvatthama lacks, leading to his eagerness in the face of conflict.[26]
From: Chaitanya Mangala
(1) A plea for compassion and grace from the divine, indicating a humble and devoted approach to God.[27] (2) The benevolent compassion and kindness requested from the Lord and devotees, seen as essential for spiritual progress.[28]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Compassion or forgiveness shown towards someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm.[29]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) An attribute of the Devi, highlighting her compassionate nature and willingness to help her devotees.[30] (2) The unbounded compassion shown by the Devi towards her devotees, resulting in their purification and acceptance.[31]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) A divine quality attributed to the Lord, noted as essential for protection and salvation.[32] (2) The quality exemplified by the Bull-emblemed Lord, indicating compassion towards devotees.[33]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Compassion and kindness that Kunti hopes for from higher powers towards her sons.[34]
From: Shiva Purana
(1) Compassion and kindness shown towards others, particularly in the context of spiritual deeds that lead to favorable outcomes on the path to Yama.[35]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Compassionate behavior towards others, demonstrating kindness and understanding.[36] (2) The disposition to care for and protect living beings, particularly in times of trouble, reflecting kindness and compassion.[37]