Compassion, a profound and active empathy towards others, is a central theme in the Bible and is consistently portrayed as a hallmark of righteousness. The Scriptures emphasize that true righteousness is not merely a matter of adhering to laws or rituals but is deeply intertwined with the love and mercy one extends to others.

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament lays the groundwork for understanding compassion as an essential attribute of the righteous. In Micah 6:8 , the prophet declares, "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" Here, loving mercy, or compassion, is presented as a divine requirement, integral to living a life pleasing to God.

The Psalms frequently highlight God's compassion as a model for human behavior. Psalm 145:8-9 states, "The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in loving devotion. The LORD is good to all; His compassion rests on all He has made." This passage underscores that God's compassion is universal and serves as a standard for His followers.

Prophetic Calls to Compassion

The prophets often rebuked Israel for neglecting compassion, equating such neglect with unrighteousness. Isaiah 58:6-7 challenges the people: "Is not this the fast that I have chosen: to break the chains of wickedness, to untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and tear off every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, to bring the poor and homeless into your home, to clothe the naked when you see him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?" Here, true fasting and devotion to God are linked with acts of compassion and justice.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ embodies and teaches compassion as a core aspect of righteousness. His ministry is marked by acts of healing, feeding the hungry, and showing mercy to sinners. In Matthew 9:36 , it is written, "When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." Jesus' compassion is not passive but leads to action, setting a precedent for His followers.

The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) further illustrates compassion as a defining trait of righteousness. When asked about inheriting eternal life, Jesus tells the account of a Samaritan who shows mercy to a wounded man, contrasting with the indifference of a priest and a Levite. Jesus concludes with the command, "Go and do likewise," urging His listeners to emulate the Samaritan's compassion.

Apostolic Teachings

The apostles continue to emphasize compassion as a mark of the righteous community. In Colossians 3:12 , Paul instructs believers, "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." Compassion is listed among the virtues that should characterize the life of a believer, reflecting the transformative work of the Holy Spirit.

James 1:27 reinforces this by defining pure religion: "Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world." Compassionate care for the vulnerable is presented as an essential expression of genuine faith.

Conclusion

Throughout the Bible, compassion is consistently portrayed as a vital expression of righteousness. It reflects the character of God and is a tangible demonstration of love and mercy towards others. As such, compassion is not merely an optional virtue but a defining mark of those who seek to live in accordance with God's will.