Jump to content

Mercy: Difference between revisions

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
unrelated
Citation bot (talk | contribs)
Bots
5,161,651 edits
Alter: isbn, title. Add: doi, publisher. Upgrade ISBN10 to 13. | Use this bot. Report bugs. | Suggested by Superegz | Category:Articles lacking reliable references from August 2023‎ | #UCB_Category 382/933
 
(16 intermediate revisions by 8 users not shown)
Line 2: Line 2:
{{About}}
{{About}}
{{redirect|Merciful|people called "the Merciful"|List of people known as the Merciful}}
{{redirect|Merciful|people called "the Merciful"|List of people known as the Merciful}}
[[File:1605 Francken sieben Werke der Barmherzigkeit anagoria.JPG |thumb|''The Seven [[Works of Mercy]]'', by [[Frans II Francken]], 1605.]]
[[File:Peterborough Psalter c 1220-25 Mercy and Truth.jpg|thumb|''Mercy and Truth'' are shown together in a 13th-century representation of [[Psalm 85]]:10]]
'''Mercy''' ([[Middle English]], from [[Anglo-Norman language|Anglo-French]] ''merci'', from [[Medieval Latin]] ''merced-'', ''merces'', from [[Latin]], "price paid, wages", from ''merc-'', ''merxi'' "merchandise") is [[wikt:benevolence|benevolence]], [[forgiveness]], and [[kindness]] in a variety of ethical, religious, social, and [[Law|legal]] contexts.
'''Mercy''' ([[Middle English]], from [[Anglo-Norman language|Anglo-French]] {{lang|fr|merci}}, from [[Medieval Latin]] {{lang|la|merced-}}, {{lang|la|merces}} "price paid, wages", from [[Latin]] {{lang|la|merc-}}, {{lang|la|merxi}} "merchandise") is [[wikt:benevolence|benevolence]], [[forgiveness]], and [[kindness]] in a variety of ethical, religious, social, and [[Law|legal]] contexts.


In the social and legal context, mercy may refer both to compassionate behavior on the part of those in power (e.g. mercy shown by a judge toward a convict), or on the part of a humanitarian third party, e.g., a mission of mercy aiming to treat war victims.<ref name=Sarat >Sarat, Austin and Hussain, Nasser. ''Forgiveness, mercy, and clemency'', 2006 {{ISBN|0-8047-5333-4}} pp. 1-5</ref><ref name=Menke>Menke, Christopher. ''Reflections of equality'' by Christoph Menke 2006 {{ISBN|0-8047-4474-2}} p. 193</ref>
In the social and legal context, mercy may refer both to compassionate behavior on the part of those in power (e.g. mercy shown by a judge toward a convict), or on the part of a humanitarian third party (e.g., a mission of mercy aiming to treat war victims).<ref>{{multiref2
|1={{cite book|last1=Sarat|first1=Austin|last2=Hussain|first2=Nasser|title=Forgiveness, mercy, and clemency|year=2006|isbn=0-8047-5333-4|pages=1–5|publisher=Stanford University Press }}
|2={{cite book|last=Menke|first=Christopher|title=Reflections of equality|year=2006|isbn=0-8047-4474-2|page=193|publisher=Stanford University Press }} }}</ref>


==Definition==
==Definition==
"Mercy" can be defined as "compassion or forbearance shown especially to an offender or to one subject to one's power"; and also "a blessing that is an act of divine favor or compassion."<ref>[http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mercy "Mercy", Merriam-Webster.com]</ref> "To be at someone's mercy" indicates a person being "without defense against someone."<ref>[http://idioms.thefreedictionary.com/at+the+mercy+of "At the mercy of", McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.]</ref>
"Mercy" can be defined as "compassion or forbearance shown especially to an offender or to one subject to one's power"; and also "a blessing that is an act of divine favor or compassion."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mercy|title=mercy|website=Merriam-Webster}}</ref> "To be at someone's mercy" indicates a person being "without defense against someone."<ref>{{cite book|url=https://idioms.thefreedictionary.com/at+the+mercy+of|chapter=at the mercy of|title=McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs|publisher=The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.|year=2002}}</ref>


==Law and ethics==
==Law and ethics==
[[File:Spirit of Compassion.jpg|thumb|150px|The ''Spirit of Compassion'', commemorating [[World War I]], [[National War Memorial (South Australia)|South Australia]], 1931]]
[[File:Spirit of Compassion.jpg|thumb|150px|The ''Spirit of Compassion'', commemorating [[World War I]], [[National War Memorial (South Australia)|South Australia]], 1931]]
In a judicial context mercy is often termed "clemency". It is a sovereign prerogative that resides in the executive and is entirely discretionary. [[John Locke]] defined it as "the power to act according to discretion, for the public good, without the prescription of the Law, and sometimes even against it."<ref>Locke, John. ''Second Treatise on Civil Government'', (C.B MacPherson, ed.), Indianapolis, Indiana. Hackett, 1980, §§ 159-160</ref> The U.S. [[Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit]] explained that "The very nature of clemency is that it is grounded solely in the will of the dispenser of clemency. He need give no reasons for granting it or for denying it."<ref>''In re Sapp'', 118 F. 3d 460, 465 (6th Cir. 1997)</ref>
In a judicial context mercy is often termed "clemency". It is a sovereign prerogative that resides in the executive and is entirely discretionary. [[John Locke]] defined it as "the power to act according to discretion, for the public good, without the prescription of the Law, and sometimes even against it."<ref>{{cite book|last=Locke|first=John|title=Second Treatise on Civil Government|editor-first=C.B|editor-last=MacPherson|location=Indianapolis, Ind.|publisher=Hackett|year=1980|at=§§159–160}}</ref> The U.S. [[Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit]] explained that "The very nature of clemency is that it is grounded solely in the will of the dispenser of clemency. He need give no reasons for granting it or for denying it."<ref>{{cite court|litigants=In re Sapp|reporter=F.3d|vol=118|opinion=460|pinpoint=465|court=6th Cir.|date=1997}}</ref>


==Religions==
==Religions==
The concept of a merciful God appears in various religions, including [[Hinduism]], [[Christianity]], [[Judaism]] and [[Islam]]. Performing acts of mercy as a component of religious beliefs is also emphasized through actions such as the giving of alms, and care for the sick and [[Works of Mercy]].
The concept of a merciful God appears in various religions, including [[Hinduism]], [[Christianity]], [[Judaism]], and [[Islam]]. Performing acts of mercy as a component of religious beliefs is also emphasized through actions such as the giving of alms, care for the sick, and [[Works of Mercy]].


===Christianity===
===Christianity===
Hebrews 4:16 says, "So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help."<ref>Hebrews 4:16, NAB</ref> Grace and mercy are similar in that both are free gifts of God and both are dispensed absent any merit on the part of the recipient. Grace is the favor of God, a divine assistance. Grace is what one receives that they do not deserve while mercy is what one receives when they do ''not'' get that which they deserve.<ref>[http://www.patheos.com/blogs/christiancrier/2014/03/17/what-is-the-difference-between-mercy-and-grace/ Wellman, Jack. "What Is The Difference Between Mercy and Grace?"], ''Patheos'', March 17, 2104</ref>
{{Bibleverse|Hebrews|4:16|nab}} says, "So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help." Grace and mercy are similar in that both are free gifts of God and both are dispensed absent any merit on the part of the recipient. Grace is the favor of God, a divine assistance. Grace is what one receives that one does not deserve while mercy is what one receives when one does ''not'' get what one deserves.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.patheos.com/blogs/christiancrier/2014/03/17/what-is-the-difference-between-mercy-and-grace/|last=Wellman|first=Jack|title=What Is The Difference Between Mercy and Grace?|website=Christian Crier|date=March 17, 2014}}</ref>


An emphasis on mercy appears in the [[New Testament]], for example in the [[Magnificat]]<ref>{{bibleverse||Luke|1:46-55|NKJV}}</ref> and [[Benedictus (Song of Zechariah)|Benedictus]] (Song of [[Zechariah (priest)|Zechariah]]),<ref>{{bibleverse||Luke|1:68-79|NKJV}}</ref> in [[Luke's Gospel]], and in the [[Beatitudes]] in [[wikisource:Bible (American Standard)/Matthew#5:7|Matthew 5:7]]: "Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy".<ref name=Mauriello149 /> In [[wikisource:Bible (American Standard)/Ephesians#2:4|Ephesians 2:4]] [[Apostle Paul]] refers to the mercy of God in terms of salvation: "God, being rich in mercy,... even when we were dead through our sins, made us alive together with Christ".
An emphasis on mercy appears in the [[New Testament]], for example in the [[Magnificat]]<ref>{{bibleverse|Luke|1:46-55}}</ref> and [[Benedictus (Song of Zechariah)|Benedictus]] (Song of [[Zechariah (priest)|Zechariah]]),<ref>{{bibleverse|Luke|1:68-79}}</ref> in [[Luke's Gospel]], and in the [[Beatitudes]] in {{Bibleverse|Matthew|5:7}}: "Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy."<ref name=Mauriello149 /> In {{Bibleverse|Ephesians|2:4–5}} [[Apostle Paul]] refers to the mercy of God in terms of salvation: "God, who is rich in mercy... even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ."


[[Psalm 117]] calls upon all nations to praise the Lord, and that on account of his "merciful kindness". This is quoted by the Apostle Paul in Romans 15:11 to show that God has now fulfilled this prophecy and promise through Jesus Christ, who has been merciful in giving his life as a sacrifice for his people, both Jew and gentile. {{Bibleref2|1 Peter|2:9-10|KJV}} reads:
[[Psalm 117]] calls upon all nations to praise the Lord on account of his "merciful kindness". This is quoted by the Apostle Paul in {{Bibleverse|Romans|15:11}} to show that God has now fulfilled this prophecy and promise through Jesus Christ, who has been merciful in giving his life as a sacrifice for his people, both Jew and gentile. {{Bibleverse|1 Peter|2:9-10}} reads:
{{quote|But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light; Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.}}
{{quote|But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.}}


This devotional element of mercy as part of the Christian tradition was echoed by [[Saint Augustine]] who called mercy "ever ancient, ever new".<ref name=Mauriello149 >''Mercies Remembered'' by Matthew R Mauriello 2011 {{ISBN|1-61215-005-5}} page 149-160</ref><ref>[[Augustine]], ''[[Confessions (St. Augustine)|Confessions]]'', Book X, 27</ref> The [[Works of Mercy]] (seven corporal and seven spiritual works) are part of the Catholic and [[Eastern Orthodox]] traditions.<ref name=Apostoli105 />
This devotional element of mercy as part of the Christian tradition was echoed by [[Saint Augustine]] who called mercy "ever ancient, ever new".<ref name=Mauriello149 >{{cite book|title=Mercies Remembered|first=Matthew R.|last=Mauriello|year=2011|isbn=978-1-61215-005-5|pages=149–160|publisher=Xulon Press }}</ref><ref>{{cite book|author=[[Augustine of Hippo]]|title=[[Confessions (St. Augustine)|Confessions]]|at=X.27}}</ref> The [[Works of Mercy]] (seven corporal and seven spiritual works) are part of the Catholic and [[Eastern Orthodox]] traditions.<ref name=Apostoli105 />


====Roman Catholicism====
====Roman Catholicism====
{{see also|Divine Mercy}}
{{see also|Divine Mercy}}
[[File:Kazimirowski Eugeniusz, Divine Mercy, 1934.jpg|thumb|180px|The first ''[[Divine Mercy image]]'' (circa 1934) painted according to the apparitions of [[Faustina Kowalska]] by [[Eugene Kazimierowski]]. Now permanently enshrined at the [[Divine Mercy Sanctuary (Vilnius)|Divine Mercy Sanctuary of Vilnius]], [[Lithuania]]<ref name=Withyou548 >''Am With You Always'' by [[Benedict Groeschel]] 2010 {{ISBN|978-1-58617-257-2}} page 548</ref>]]
[[File:Kazimirowski Eugeniusz, Divine Mercy, 1934.jpg|thumb|180px|The first ''[[Divine Mercy image]]'' ({{Circa|1934}}) painted according to the apparitions of [[Faustina Kowalska]] by [[Eugene Kazimierowski]]. Now permanently enshrined at the [[Divine Mercy Sanctuary (Vilnius)|Divine Mercy Sanctuary of Vilnius]], [[Lithuania]]<ref name=Withyou548>{{cite book|title=Am With You Always|author-link=Benedict Groeschel|first=Benedict|last=Groeschel|year=2010|isbn=978-1-58617-257-2|page=548|publisher=Ignatius Press }}</ref>]]


In the encyclical ''[[Dives in misericordia]]'' ("Rich in Mercy") Pope John Paul II examines the role of mercy—both God's mercy, and also the need for human mercy.<ref name=Dives>[https://www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/encyclicals/documents/hf_jp-ii_enc_30111980_dives-in-misericordia_en.html Pope John Paul II. ''Dives in misericordia'', November 30, 1980, Libreria Editrice Vaticana]</ref> He sees in the [[Parable of the Prodigal Son]] ([[wikisource:Bible (American Standard)/Luke#15:11|Luke 15:11-32]]) "the essence of the divine mercy".<ref name=Dives/> Having squandered his patrimony, justice would dictate that the prodigal should only expect to be received back as a hireling. The figure of the father is analogous to God as Father, who goes beyond the requirements of justice to welcome his son with compassion.
In the encyclical ''[[Dives in misericordia]]'' ("Rich in Mercy") [[Pope John Paul II]] examined the role of mercy—both God's mercy, and also the need for human mercy.<ref name=Dives>{{cite web|url=https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_jp-ii_enc_30111980_dives-in-misericordia.html|author=Pope John Paul II|title=Dives in misericordia|date=November 30, 1980|publisher=Libreria Editrice Vaticana}}</ref> He saw in the [[Parable of the Prodigal Son]] ({{Bibleverse|Luke|15:11–32}}) "the essence of the divine mercy".<ref name=Dives/> Having squandered his patrimony, justice would dictate that the prodigal should only expect to be received back as a hireling. The figure of the father is analogous to God as Father, who goes beyond the requirements of justice to welcome his son with compassion.


The [[Catechism of the Catholic Church]] emphasizes the importance of the [[Works of Mercy]] (item 2447) and in [[Roman Catholic]] teachings, the mercy of God flows through the work of the Holy Spirit.<ref name=Apostoli105 >''We Believe in the Holy Spirit'' by Andrew Apostoli 2002 {{ISBN|1-931709-31-9}} pages 105-107</ref><ref name=Catechism2447 >[https://www.vatican.va/archive/ccc_css/archive/catechism/p3s2c2a7.htm#2447 Vatican website Catechism item 2447]</ref> Roman [[Catholic liturgy]] includes frequent references to mercy, e.g., as in ''[[Kyrie|Kyrie eleison, Christe eleison]]'': Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy.<ref>[http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08714a.htm Catholic encyclopedia: ''Kyrie Eleison'']</ref>
The [[Catechism of the Catholic Church]] emphasizes the importance of the [[Works of Mercy]]. In [[Roman Catholic]] teachings the mercy of God flows through the work of the Holy Spirit.<ref name=Apostoli105>{{cite book|title=We Believe in the Holy Spirit|first=Andrew|last=Apostoli|year=2002|isbn=1-931709-31-9|pages=105–107|publisher=Our Sunday Visitor, Publishing Division }}</ref><ref name=Catechism2447 >{{cite web|url=https://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/__P8F.HTM|website=The Holy See|title=Catechism of the Catholic Church|at=2447}}</ref> Roman [[Catholic liturgy]] includes frequent references to mercy, e.g., as in {{transliteration|grc|[[Kyrie|Kyrie eleison, Christe eleison]]}}: Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy.<ref>{{cite book|last=Fortescue|first=Adrian|chapter-url=https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08714a.htm|title=Catholic encyclopedia|volume=8|location=New York|publisher=Robert Appleton Co.|year=1910|chapter=Kyrie Eleison}}</ref>


Mercy has also been an important subject of Christian [[iconography]]. Since the [[Middle Ages]], many representations in art encouraged people to practice the [[works of mercy]] and, as the art historian [[Ralf van Bühren]] explains using the example of [[Caravaggio]], helped "the audience to explore mercy in their own lives".<ref>[[Ralf van Bühren]], ''[http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/23753234.2017.1287283 Caravaggio’s ‘Seven Works of Mercy’ in Naples. The relevance of art history to cultural journalism]'', in ''Church, Communication and Culture'' 2 (2017), pp. 63-87, quotation from pp. 79-80.</ref>
Mercy has also been an important subject of Christian [[iconography]]. Since the [[Middle Ages]], many representations in art encouraged people to practice the [[works of mercy]] and, as the art historian [[Ralf van Bühren]] explains using the example of [[Caravaggio]], helped "the audience to explore mercy in their own lives".<ref>{{cite journal|author-link=Ralf van Bühren|first=Ralf|last=van Bühren|url=https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/23753234.2017.1287283|title=Caravaggio's 'Seven Works of Mercy' in Naples. The relevance of art history to cultural journalism|journal=Church, Communication and Culture|volume=2|year=2017|pages=63–87|doi=10.1080/23753234.2017.1287283 }}</ref>{{rp|79–80}}


In the 20th century, there was new focus on mercy in the Roman Catholic Church, partly due to the [[Divine Mercy]] devotion.<ref name=Withyou548 /><ref name=Ball175 /><ref name=Butler /> The primary focus of the Divine Mercy devotion is the merciful love of God and the desire to let that love and mercy flow through one's own heart towards those in need of it.<ref name=Ball175 >Ann Ball, 2003 ''Encyclopedia of Catholic Devotions and Practices'' {{ISBN|0-87973-910-X}} page 175</ref>
In the 20th century, there was new focus on mercy in the Roman Catholic Church, partly due to the [[Divine Mercy]] devotion.<ref name=Withyou548 /><ref name=Ball175 >{{cite book|first=Ann|last=Ball|year=2003|title=Encyclopedia of Catholic Devotions and Practices|isbn=0-87973-910-X|page=175|publisher=Our Sunday Visitor }}</ref><ref name=Butler >{{cite book|title=Butler's lives of the saints: the third millennium|first1=Paul|last1=Burns|first2=Alban|last2=Butler|year=2001|isbn=978-0-86012-383-5|page=252|publisher=Bloomsbury Academic }}</ref> The primary focus of the Divine Mercy devotion is the merciful love of God and the desire to let that love and mercy flow through one's own heart towards those in need of it.<ref name=Ball175 />
⚫
[[Pope John Paul II]] was a follower of the Divine Mercy devotion, due to Saint [[Mary Faustina Kowalska]] (1905–1938), who is known as the ''[[Faustina Kowalska|Apostle of Mercy]]''.<ref name=Butler >''Butler's lives of the saints: the third millennium'' by Paul Burns, Alban Butler 2001 {{ISBN|978-0-86012-383-5}} page 252</ref><ref name=Drake85 >''Saints of the Jubilee'' by Tim Drake 2002 {{ISBN|978-1-4033-1009-5}} pages 85-95</ref>


⚫
Pope John Paul II was a follower of the Divine Mercy devotion, due to Saint [[Mary Faustina Kowalska]] (1905–1938), who is known as the ''[[Faustina Kowalska|Apostle of Mercy]]''.<ref name=Butler /><ref name=Drake85 >{{cite book|title=Saints of the Jubilee|first=Tim|last=Drake|year=2002|isbn=978-1-4033-1009-5|pages=85–95|publisher=AuthorHouse }}</ref>
A number of Roman Catholic [[shrines]] are specifically dedicated to Divine Mercy, e.g.
⚫
the [[Divine Mercy Sanctuary (Krakow)|Basilica of Divine Mercy]] in Krakow Poland, and the [[National Shrine of The Divine Mercy (Stockbridge, Massachusetts)]].<ref>[https://www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/travels/documents/hf_jp-ii_spe_07061997_sr-faustina_en.html Vatican website: Shrine of Divine Mercy]</ref> During the dedication of the Basilica of Divine Mercy John Paul II quoted [[Diary: Divine Mercy in My Soul|the Diary of Faustina]] and called mercy the "greatest attribute of God Almighty".<ref>[https://www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/homilies/2002/documents/hf_jp-ii_hom_20020817_shrine-divine-mercy_en.html Vatican website: Dedication of the Shrine of Divine Mercy]</ref>


⚫
A number of Roman Catholic [[shrines]] are specifically dedicated to Divine Mercy, e.g. the [[Divine Mercy Sanctuary (Krakow)|Basilica of Divine Mercy]] in Krakow Poland, and the [[National Shrine of The Divine Mercy (Stockbridge, Massachusetts)]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/speeches/1997/june/documents/hf_jp-ii_spe_19970607_divina-misericordia.html|title=Address of John Paul II|location=Shrine of Divine Mercy, Krakow|date=7 June 1997|website=Holy See}}</ref> During the dedication of the Basilica of Divine Mercy, John Paul II quoted [[Diary: Divine Mercy in My Soul|the Diary of Faustina]] and called mercy the "greatest attribute of God Almighty".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/homilies/2002/documents/hf_jp-ii_hom_20020817_shrine-divine-mercy.html|website=Holy See|title=Dedication of the Shrine of Divine Mercy|location=Kraków-Łagiewniki|date=17 August 2002}}</ref>
The first ''World Apostolic Congress on Mercy'' was held in Rome in April 2008 and was inaugurated by [[Pope Benedict XVI]].<ref name=Mauriello149 /><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.zenit.org/article-22184?l=english |title=Zenit April 2, 2008 |access-date=May 22, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080407083540/http://www.zenit.org/article-22184?l=english |archive-date=April 7, 2008 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/0801799.htm |title=Catholic News Service, April 3, 2008 |access-date=May 22, 2011 |archive-url=http://webarchive.loc.gov/all/20080408194854/http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/0801799.htm |archive-date=April 8, 2008 |url-status=dead }}</ref>


The first ''World Apostolic Congress on Mercy'' was held in Rome in April 2008 and was inaugurated by [[Pope Benedict XVI]].<ref name=Mauriello149 /><ref>{{multiref2
⚫
On 11 April 2015, at St. Peter's Basillica, in a Papal Bull of Indiction entitled ''Misericordiae Vultus'' ("The Face of Mercy"), [[Pope Francis]] proclaimed a Special and Extraordinary Holy Year [[Jubilee (Christianity)|Jubilee Year]] of Mercy, from December 8, 2015: [[Solemnity]] of the [[Immaculate Conception]] of the [[Blessed Virgin Mary]], until November 21, 2016: the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus [[Christ the King]].<ref>[https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/bulls/documents/papa-francesco_bolla_20150411_misericordiae-vultus.html Pope Francis, ''Misericordiae Vultus'', April 11, 2015, Libreria Editrice Vaticana]</ref> The theme of the Extraordinary Jubilee is taken from Luke 6:36, "Merciful, Like the Father".<ref>[http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/pope-francis-declares-2016-to-be-a-jubilee-for-mercy-84325/ Harris, Elise. "Pope Francis declares Holy Year for Mercy", Catholic News Agency, March 13, 2015]</ref>
|1={{Cite web |url=http://www.zenit.org/article-22184?l=english |title=Benedict XVI Inaugurates 1st Mercy Conference |date=April 2, 2008 |website=Zenit|access-date=May 22, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080407083540/http://www.zenit.org/article-22184?l=english |archive-date=April 7, 2008 |url-status=dead }}
|2={{Cite web |title=Cardinal calls mercy a grace that points out sin, provides healing|last=Wooden|first=Cindy|url=http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/0801799.htm |website=Catholic News Service |date=April 3, 2008 |access-date=May 22, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120330191223/http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/0801799.htm |archive-date=March 30, 2012 |url-status=dead}} }}</ref>

⚫
In 2015, at [[St. Peter's Basilica]], in a [[Papal Bull]] of [[proclamation|Indiction]] entitled ''Misericordiae Vultus'' ("The Face of Mercy"), [[Pope Francis]] proclaimed a Special and Extraordinary Holy Year [[Jubilee (Christianity)|Jubilee Year]] of Mercy, from December 8, 2015: [[Solemnity]] of the [[Immaculate Conception]] of the [[Blessed Virgin Mary]], until November 21, 2016: the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus [[Christ the King]].<ref>{{cite web|author=Pope Francis|url=https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/bulls/documents/papa-francesco_bolla_20150411_misericordiae-vultus.html|title=Misericordiae Vultus|date=April 11, 2015|website=Holy See}}</ref> The theme of the Extraordinary Jubilee was taken from {{bibleverse|Luke|6:36}}, "Merciful, Like the Father".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/31669/pope-francis-declares-holy-year-for-mercy|last=Harris|first=Elise|title=Pope Francis declares Holy Year for Mercy|website=Catholic News Agency|date=March 13, 2015}}</ref>


===Islam===
===Islam===
Line 52: Line 55:


===Judaism===
===Judaism===
The Hebrew word for mercy is ''Rachamim'' which is always in plural form so that it literally means "mercies". "Mercy includes showing kindness to those who don’t deserve it, and forgiving those that deserve punishment."<ref>[http://www.shema.com/gods-attributes-the-mercy-of-god-3043/ Rabbi Loren. "God’s Attributes: The Mercy of God", Congregation Shema Yisrael]</ref>
The Hebrew word for mercy is {{transliteration|he|rachamim}} which is always in plural form so that it literally means "mercies". "Mercy includes showing kindness to those who don’t deserve it, and forgiving those that deserve punishment."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://shema.com/gods-attributes-the-mercy-of-god-3043/|first=Loren|last=Jacobs|title=God's Attributes: The Mercy of God|date=28 May 2013|website=Congregation Shema Yisrael}}</ref>


Mercy is one of the defining characteristics of [[God]]. Exodus 34:6 says: "The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness."<ref>''After the exile'' by John Barton, David James Reimer 1997 {{ISBN|978-0-86554-524-3}} page 90</ref> This is also emphasized in the context of the Babylonian exile in Isaiah: "For the Lord has comforted his people, and will have compassion on his suffering ones. But Zion said, 'The Lord has forsaken me, my Lord has forgotten me.' Can a woman forget her nursing child, or show no compassion for the child of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you." (Isaiah 49:13-15) Also: "It is good to pray and fast, to be merciful and just." (Tobit 12:8)
Mercy is one of the defining characteristics of [[God]]. {{Bibleverse|Exodus|34:6}} says: "The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness."<ref>{{cite book|title=After the exile|first1=John|last1=Barton|first2=David James|last2=Reimer|year=1997|isbn=978-0-86554-524-3|page=90|publisher=Mercer University Press }}</ref> This is also emphasized in the context of the Babylonian exile in Isaiah: "For the Lord has comforted his people, and will have compassion on his suffering ones. But Zion said, 'The Lord has forsaken me, my Lord has forgotten me.' Can a woman forget her nursing child, or show no compassion for the child of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you." ({{Bibleverse|Isaiah|49:13–15}}) Also: "It is good to pray and fast, to be merciful and just." ({{Bibleverse|Tobit|12:8}})


When [[David]], because of his sin, was told to choose between a three-year famine, pursuit by his enemies for three months, or a three-day pestilence, he chose the pestilence saying, "Let us fall by the hand of God, for he is most merciful; but let me not fall by the hand of man."<ref>2 Samuel 24:14, NAB</ref> Psalm 103:8 praises God for his mercy.
When [[David]], because of his sin, was told to choose between a three-year famine, pursuit by his enemies for three months, or a three-day pestilence, he chose the pestilence saying, "Let us fall by the hand of God, for he is most merciful; but let me not fall by the hand of man." ({{Bibleverse|2 Samuel|24:14|nab}}) [[Psalm 103#v8|Psalm 103:8]] praises God for his mercy.


===Other religions and beliefs===
===Other religions and beliefs===
[[Kwan Yin]] the bodhisattva of mercy and compassion, is one of the best known and most venerated [[Bodhisattva]] in Asia.<ref>''Guan Yin: goddess of compassion'' by Kok Kiang Koh 2004 {{ISBN|981-229-379-5}} pages 6-8</ref>
[[Kwan Yin]] the bodhisattva of mercy and compassion, is one of the best known and most venerated [[Bodhisattva]] in Asia.<ref>{{cite book|title=Guan Yin: goddess of compassion|author=Kok Kiang Koh|year=2004|isbn=981-229-379-5|pages=6–8|publisher=Asiapac Books }}</ref>


[[Karuṇā]] (often translated as "compassion") is part of the beliefs of [[Hinduism]], [[Buddhism]] and [[Jainism]]. Karuṇā is present in all schools of Buddhism and in Jainism it is viewed as one of the reflections of universal friendship.
{{transliteration|sa|[[Karuṇā]]}} (often translated as "compassion") is part of the beliefs of [[Hinduism]], [[Buddhism]], and [[Jainism]]. {{transliteration|sa|Karuṇā}} is present in all schools of Buddhism and in Jainism it is viewed as one of the reflections of universal friendship.


The spiritual teacher [[Meher Baba]] described God as being "all-merciful and eternally benevolent" in his [[Parvardigar Prayer|O Parvardigar]] prayer, and he held that we can approach God through the "invocation of His mercy."<ref>Kalchuri, Bhau (1986). ''Meher Prabhu: Lord Meher''. '''18'''. Myrtle Beach: Manifestation, Inc. p. 5986.</ref>
The spiritual teacher [[Meher Baba]] described God as being "all-merciful and eternally benevolent" in his [[Parvardigar Prayer|O Parvardigar]] prayer, and he held that we can approach God through the "invocation of His mercy."<ref>{{cite book|last=Kalchuri|first=Bhau|year=1986|title=Meher Prabhu: Lord Meher|volume=18|location=Myrtle Beach|publisher=Manifestation, Inc.|page=5986}}</ref>


==Quotes==
==Quotes==
* "I have always found that mercy bears richer fruits than strict justice." ―[[Abraham Lincoln]]<ref name=goodreads>[http://www.goodreads.com/quotes/tag/mercy "Quotes About Mercy", Goodreads]</ref>
* "I have always found that mercy bears richer fruits than strict justice." ―[[Abraham Lincoln]]<ref name=goodreads>[http://www.goodreads.com/quotes/tag/mercy "Quotes About Mercy", Goodreads]</ref>{{better source needed|date=August 2023}}
* "For children are innocent and love justice, while most of us are wicked and naturally prefer mercy." ―[[G.K. Chesterton]]<ref name=goodreads/>
* "For children are innocent and love justice, while most of us are wicked and naturally prefer mercy." ―[[G.K. Chesterton]]<ref name=goodreads/>{{better source needed|date=August 2023}}
* "You cannot conceive, nor can I, of the appalling strangeness of the mercy of God." ―[[Graham Greene]], ''[[Brighton Rock (novel)|Brighton Rock]]''<ref name=goodreads/>
* "You cannot conceive, nor can I, of the appalling strangeness of the mercy of God." ―[[Graham Greene]], ''[[Brighton Rock (novel)|Brighton Rock]]''<ref name=goodreads/>{{better source needed|date=August 2023}}
* "'What a pity that Bilbo did not stab that vile creature, when he had a chance!' Pity? It was Pity that stayed his hand. Pity, and Mercy: not to strike without need. And he has been well rewarded, Frodo. Be sure that he took so little hurt from the evil, and escaped in the end, because he began his ownership of the Ring so. With Pity." ―[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''<ref name=goodreads/>
* "'What a pity that Bilbo did not stab that vile creature, when he had a chance!' Pity? It was Pity that stayed his hand. Pity, and Mercy: not to strike without need. And he has been well rewarded, Frodo. Be sure that he took so little hurt from the evil, and escaped in the end, because he began his ownership of the Ring so. With Pity." ―[[J.R.R. Tolkien]], ''[[The Fellowship of the Ring]]''<ref name=goodreads/>{{better source needed|date=August 2023}}


==Literature==
==Literature==
* In [[William Shakespeare|Shakespeare]]'s ''[[The Quality of Mercy (Shakespeare quote)|The Merchant of Venice]]'', [[Portia (The Merchant of Venice)|Portia]], disguised as young lawyer Balthazar, begs Shylock to show mercy to her client Antonio:<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Gk1wthOVvIwC&pg=PA150|title=The Merchant of Venice|year=2010|publisher=[[Modern Library]]|author=Shakespeare, William|editor=Bate, Jonathan and Eric Rasmussen|pages=150–151|isbn=978-1-58836-874-4}}</ref>
* In [[William Shakespeare|Shakespeare]]'s ''[[The Quality of Mercy (Shakespeare quote)|The Merchant of Venice]]'', [[Portia (The Merchant of Venice)|Portia]], disguised as young lawyer Balthazar, begs Shylock to show mercy to her client Antonio:<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Gk1wthOVvIwC&pg=PA150|title=The Merchant of Venice|year=2010|publisher=[[Modern Library]]|last=Shakespeare|first=William|editor-last1=Bate|editor-first1=Jonathan|editor-first2=Eric|editor-last2=Rasmussen|pages=150–151|isbn=978-1-58836-874-4}}</ref>
{{quote|
{{quote|
The quality of mercy is not strain'd.<br />
The quality of mercy is not strain'd.<br />
Line 79: Line 82:
It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.}}
It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.}}


* In [[O. Henry]]'s ''[[A Retrieved Reformation]]'', safecracker Jimmy Valentine betrays his identity and burglary skills in order to free a child accidentally trapped in a bank vault. A detective who has been pursuing him witnesses Valentine crack the safe. As Valentine subsequently surrenders, the detective pretends not to recognize him and walks away.<ref>{{cite book |chapter-url=https://archive.org/stream/selectedstoriesf00henr#page/40/mode/2up |chapter=A Retrieved Reformation |title=Selected stories from O. Henry |pages=41–49 |year=1922 |editor=C. Alphonso Smith |publisher=Odyssey Press |location=New York}}</ref>
* In [[O. Henry]]'s ''[[A Retrieved Reformation]]'', safecracker Jimmy Valentine betrays his identity and burglary skills in order to free a child accidentally trapped in a bank vault. A detective who has been pursuing him witnesses Valentine crack the safe. As Valentine subsequently surrenders, the detective pretends not to recognize him and walks away.<ref>{{cite book |author=O. Henry|chapter-url=https://archive.org/stream/selectedstoriesf00henr#page/40/mode/2up |chapter=A Retrieved Reformation |title=Selected stories from O. Henry |pages=41–49 |year=1922 |editor-first=C. Alphonso |editor-last=Smith |publisher=Odyssey Press |location=New York}}</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
{{Commons category}}
{{Commons category}}
{{wikiquote}}
{{wikiquote}}
* {{annotated link|Christian universalism}}
* [[Mercy Corps]]
⚫
* {{annotated link|[[Clementia]]}}
* [[Thirteen Attributes of Mercy]]
* [[Virgin of Mercy]]
* {{annotated link|[[Mercy Corps]]}}
* [[Works of Mercy]]
* {{annotated link|[[Thirteen Attributes of Mercy]]}}
* {{annotated link|[[Virgin of Mercy]]}}
⚫
* [[Clementia]]
* {{annotated link|[[Works of Mercy]]}}


== References ==
== References ==
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}

{{Virtues}}


{{Authority control}}
{{Authority control}}

Latest revision as of 06:28, 9 May 2024

For other uses, see Mercy (disambiguation).
"Merciful" redirects here. For people called "the Merciful", see List of people known as the Merciful.
The Seven Works of Mercy, by Frans II Francken, 1605.

Mercy (Middle English, from Anglo-French merci, from Medieval Latin merced-, merces "price paid, wages", from Latin merc-, merxi "merchandise") is benevolence, forgiveness, and kindness in a variety of ethical, religious, social, and legal contexts.

In the social and legal context, mercy may refer both to compassionate behavior on the part of those in power (e.g. mercy shown by a judge toward a convict), or on the part of a humanitarian third party (e.g., a mission of mercy aiming to treat war victims).[1]

Definition

[edit]

"Mercy" can be defined as "compassion or forbearance shown especially to an offender or to one subject to one's power"; and also "a blessing that is an act of divine favor or compassion."[2] "To be at someone's mercy" indicates a person being "without defense against someone."[3]

Law and ethics

[edit]
The Spirit of Compassion, commemorating World War I, South Australia, 1931

In a judicial context mercy is often termed "clemency". It is a sovereign prerogative that resides in the executive and is entirely discretionary. John Locke defined it as "the power to act according to discretion, for the public good, without the prescription of the Law, and sometimes even against it."[4] The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit explained that "The very nature of clemency is that it is grounded solely in the will of the dispenser of clemency. He need give no reasons for granting it or for denying it."[5]

Religions

[edit]

The concept of a merciful God appears in various religions, including Hinduism, Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. Performing acts of mercy as a component of religious beliefs is also emphasized through actions such as the giving of alms, care for the sick, and Works of Mercy.

Christianity

[edit]

Hebrews 4:16 says, "So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help." Grace and mercy are similar in that both are free gifts of God and both are dispensed absent any merit on the part of the recipient. Grace is the favor of God, a divine assistance. Grace is what one receives that one does not deserve while mercy is what one receives when one does not get what one deserves.[6]

An emphasis on mercy appears in the New Testament, for example in the Magnificat[7] and Benedictus (Song of Zechariah),[8] in Luke's Gospel, and in the Beatitudes in Matthew 5:7: "Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy."[9] In Ephesians 2:4–5 Apostle Paul refers to the mercy of God in terms of salvation: "God, who is rich in mercy... even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ."

Psalm 117 calls upon all nations to praise the Lord on account of his "merciful kindness". This is quoted by the Apostle Paul in Romans 15:11 to show that God has now fulfilled this prophecy and promise through Jesus Christ, who has been merciful in giving his life as a sacrifice for his people, both Jew and gentile. 1 Peter 2:9–10 reads:

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

This devotional element of mercy as part of the Christian tradition was echoed by Saint Augustine who called mercy "ever ancient, ever new".[9][10] The Works of Mercy (seven corporal and seven spiritual works) are part of the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions.[11]

Roman Catholicism

[edit]
See also: Divine Mercy
The first Divine Mercy image (c. 1934) painted according to the apparitions of Faustina Kowalska by Eugene Kazimierowski. Now permanently enshrined at the Divine Mercy Sanctuary of Vilnius, Lithuania[12]

In the encyclical Dives in misericordia ("Rich in Mercy") Pope John Paul II examined the role of mercy—both God's mercy, and also the need for human mercy.[13] He saw in the Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11–32) "the essence of the divine mercy".[13] Having squandered his patrimony, justice would dictate that the prodigal should only expect to be received back as a hireling. The figure of the father is analogous to God as Father, who goes beyond the requirements of justice to welcome his son with compassion.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church emphasizes the importance of the Works of Mercy. In Roman Catholic teachings the mercy of God flows through the work of the Holy Spirit.[11][14] Roman Catholic liturgy includes frequent references to mercy, e.g., as in Kyrie eleison, Christe eleison: Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy.[15]

Mercy has also been an important subject of Christian iconography. Since the Middle Ages, many representations in art encouraged people to practice the works of mercy and, as the art historian Ralf van Bühren explains using the example of Caravaggio, helped "the audience to explore mercy in their own lives".[16]: 79–80 

In the 20th century, there was new focus on mercy in the Roman Catholic Church, partly due to the Divine Mercy devotion.[12][17][18] The primary focus of the Divine Mercy devotion is the merciful love of God and the desire to let that love and mercy flow through one's own heart towards those in need of it.[17]

Pope John Paul II was a follower of the Divine Mercy devotion, due to Saint Mary Faustina Kowalska (1905–1938), who is known as the Apostle of Mercy.[18][19]

A number of Roman Catholic shrines are specifically dedicated to Divine Mercy, e.g. the Basilica of Divine Mercy in Krakow Poland, and the National Shrine of The Divine Mercy (Stockbridge, Massachusetts).[20] During the dedication of the Basilica of Divine Mercy, John Paul II quoted the Diary of Faustina and called mercy the "greatest attribute of God Almighty".[21]

The first World Apostolic Congress on Mercy was held in Rome in April 2008 and was inaugurated by Pope Benedict XVI.[9][22]

In 2015, at St. Peter's Basilica, in a Papal Bull of Indiction entitled Misericordiae Vultus ("The Face of Mercy"), Pope Francis proclaimed a Special and Extraordinary Holy Year Jubilee Year of Mercy, from December 8, 2015: Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, until November 21, 2016: the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ the King.[23] The theme of the Extraordinary Jubilee was taken from Luke 6:36, "Merciful, Like the Father".[24]

Islam

[edit]

In Islam the title "Most Merciful" (Al-Raheem) is one of the names of Allah and "Most Compassionate" (Al-Rahman), is the most common name occurring in the Quran. Rahman and Rahim both derive from the root Rahmat, which refers to tenderness and benevolence.[25] As a form of mercy, the giving of alms (zakat) is the fourth of the Five Pillars of Islam and one of the requirements for the faithful.[26]

Judaism

[edit]

The Hebrew word for mercy is rachamim which is always in plural form so that it literally means "mercies". "Mercy includes showing kindness to those who don’t deserve it, and forgiving those that deserve punishment."[27]

Mercy is one of the defining characteristics of God. Exodus 34:6 says: "The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness."[28] This is also emphasized in the context of the Babylonian exile in Isaiah: "For the Lord has comforted his people, and will have compassion on his suffering ones. But Zion said, 'The Lord has forsaken me, my Lord has forgotten me.' Can a woman forget her nursing child, or show no compassion for the child of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you." (Isaiah 49:13–15) Also: "It is good to pray and fast, to be merciful and just." (Tobit 12:8)

When David, because of his sin, was told to choose between a three-year famine, pursuit by his enemies for three months, or a three-day pestilence, he chose the pestilence saying, "Let us fall by the hand of God, for he is most merciful; but let me not fall by the hand of man." (2 Samuel 24:14) Psalm 103:8 praises God for his mercy.

Other religions and beliefs

[edit]

Kwan Yin the bodhisattva of mercy and compassion, is one of the best known and most venerated Bodhisattva in Asia.[29]

Karuṇā (often translated as "compassion") is part of the beliefs of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Karuṇā is present in all schools of Buddhism and in Jainism it is viewed as one of the reflections of universal friendship.

The spiritual teacher Meher Baba described God as being "all-merciful and eternally benevolent" in his O Parvardigar prayer, and he held that we can approach God through the "invocation of His mercy."[30]

Quotes

[edit]

Literature

[edit]

The quality of mercy is not strain'd.
It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven
Upon the place beneath. It is twice blest:

It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.

  • In O. Henry's A Retrieved Reformation, safecracker Jimmy Valentine betrays his identity and burglary skills in order to free a child accidentally trapped in a bank vault. A detective who has been pursuing him witnesses Valentine crack the safe. As Valentine subsequently surrenders, the detective pretends not to recognize him and walks away.[33]

See also

[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Mercy.
Wikiquote has quotations related to Mercy.

References

[edit]
  1. ^
    • Sarat, Austin; Hussain, Nasser (2006). Forgiveness, mercy, and clemency. Stanford University Press. pp. 1–5. ISBN 0-8047-5333-4.
    • Menke, Christopher (2006). Reflections of equality. Stanford University Press. p. 193. ISBN 0-8047-4474-2.
  2. ^ "mercy". Merriam-Webster.
  3. ^ "at the mercy of". McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. 2002.
  4. ^ Locke, John (1980). MacPherson, C.B (ed.). Second Treatise on Civil Government. Indianapolis, Ind.: Hackett. §§159–160.
  5. ^ In re Sapp, 118 F.3d 460, 465 (6th Cir. 1997).
  6. ^ Wellman, Jack (March 17, 2014). "What Is The Difference Between Mercy and Grace?". Christian Crier.
  7. ^ Luke 1:46–55
  8. ^ Luke 1:68–79
  9. ^ a b c Mauriello, Matthew R. (2011). Mercies Remembered. Xulon Press. pp. 149–160. ISBN 978-1-61215-005-5.
  10. ^ Augustine of Hippo. Confessions. X.27.
  11. ^ a b Apostoli, Andrew (2002). We Believe in the Holy Spirit. Our Sunday Visitor, Publishing Division. pp. 105–107. ISBN 1-931709-31-9.
  12. ^ a b Groeschel, Benedict (2010). Am With You Always. Ignatius Press. p. 548. ISBN 978-1-58617-257-2.
  13. ^ a b Pope John Paul II (November 30, 1980). "Dives in misericordia". Libreria Editrice Vaticana.
  14. ^ "Catechism of the Catholic Church". The Holy See. 2447.
  15. ^ Fortescue, Adrian (1910). "Kyrie Eleison". Catholic encyclopedia. Vol. 8. New York: Robert Appleton Co.
  16. ^ van Bühren, Ralf (2017). "Caravaggio's 'Seven Works of Mercy' in Naples. The relevance of art history to cultural journalism". Church, Communication and Culture. 2: 63–87. doi:10.1080/23753234.2017.1287283.
  17. ^ a b Ball, Ann (2003). Encyclopedia of Catholic Devotions and Practices. Our Sunday Visitor. p. 175. ISBN 0-87973-910-X.
  18. ^ a b Burns, Paul; Butler, Alban (2001). Butler's lives of the saints: the third millennium. Bloomsbury Academic. p. 252. ISBN 978-0-86012-383-5.
  19. ^ Drake, Tim (2002). Saints of the Jubilee. AuthorHouse. pp. 85–95. ISBN 978-1-4033-1009-5.
  20. ^ "Address of John Paul II". Holy See. Shrine of Divine Mercy, Krakow. 7 June 1997.
  21. ^ "Dedication of the Shrine of Divine Mercy". Holy See. Kraków-Łagiewniki. 17 August 2002.
  22. ^
  23. ^ Pope Francis (April 11, 2015). "Misericordiae Vultus". Holy See.
  24. ^ Harris, Elise (March 13, 2015). "Pope Francis declares Holy Year for Mercy". Catholic News Agency.
  25. ^ World religions and Islam: a critical study, Part 1 by Hamid Naseem Rafiabadi, 2003 Sarup and Sons Publishers ISBN 81-7625-414-2 page 211
  26. ^ Hooker, Richard (July 14, 1999). "arkan ad-din the five pillars of religion". Washington State University. "The Five Pillars". Archived from the original on 2010-12-03. Retrieved 2010-11-17.
  27. ^ Jacobs, Loren (28 May 2013). "God's Attributes: The Mercy of God". Congregation Shema Yisrael.
  28. ^ Barton, John; Reimer, David James (1997). After the exile. Mercer University Press. p. 90. ISBN 978-0-86554-524-3.
  29. ^ Kok Kiang Koh (2004). Guan Yin: goddess of compassion. Asiapac Books. pp. 6–8. ISBN 981-229-379-5.
  30. ^ Kalchuri, Bhau (1986). Meher Prabhu: Lord Meher. Vol. 18. Myrtle Beach: Manifestation, Inc. p. 5986.
  31. ^ a b c d "Quotes About Mercy", Goodreads
  32. ^ Shakespeare, William (2010). Bate, Jonathan; Rasmussen, Eric (eds.). The Merchant of Venice. Modern Library. pp. 150–151. ISBN 978-1-58836-874-4.
  33. ^ O. Henry (1922). "A Retrieved Reformation". In Smith, C. Alphonso (ed.). Selected stories from O. Henry. New York: Odyssey Press. pp. 41–49.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Mercy&oldid=1222994507"