The term "compassionate" in the Bible refers to the deep sympathy and sorrow for another who is stricken by misfortune, accompanied by a desire to alleviate the suffering. This attribute is frequently associated with God and His dealings with humanity. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word often translated as "compassionate" is "rachum," which is derived from "racham," meaning to love deeply or have mercy.

One of the most profound declarations of God's compassionate nature is found in Exodus 34:6, where God reveals Himself to Moses: "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and truth." This self-revelation underscores God's willingness to forgive and His enduring patience with His people.

The Psalms frequently celebrate God's compassion. Psalm 103:13-14 states, "As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He is mindful that we are dust." Here, God's compassion is likened to that of a loving parent, understanding and tender towards human frailty.

In the New Testament, the Greek word "splagchnizomai" is often used to describe Jesus' compassion. This term conveys a visceral, heartfelt response. 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 leads Him to heal the sick, feed the hungry, and teach the lost.

The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) exemplifies the call for believers to emulate divine compassion. The Samaritan's actions demonstrate that true compassion transcends social and ethnic boundaries, urging believers to act mercifully towards all.

Righteous

Righteousness in the Bible is a fundamental attribute of God's character and a standard for human conduct. The Hebrew word "tsaddiq" and the Greek word "dikaios" are commonly translated as "righteous" or "just," signifying conformity to a moral or divine law.

God's righteousness is intrinsic to His nature. Psalm 11:7 declares, "For the LORD is righteous; He loves justice. The upright will see His face." God's righteousness ensures that He acts in accordance with His perfect moral law, and His judgments are always just.

In the Old Testament, righteousness is often associated with adherence to the Law. Deuteronomy 6:25 states, "And if we are careful to observe every one of these commandments before the LORD our God, as He has commanded us, then that will be our righteousness." Here, righteousness is linked to obedience and faithfulness to God's commands.

The New Testament expands on the concept of righteousness, emphasizing faith in Jesus Christ as the means by which believers are made righteous. Romans 3:22 explains, "And this righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe." This righteousness is not earned by human effort but is a gift from God, imputed to believers through faith.

The life of a righteous person is marked by integrity, justice, and a commitment to God's will. James 2:24 highlights the relationship between faith and works: "As you can see, a man is justified by his deeds and not by faith alone." Righteousness, therefore, is both a position granted by God and a practice lived out in daily life.

The Bible calls believers to pursue righteousness, as seen in 1 Timothy 6:11 : "But you, O man of God, flee from these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness." This pursuit reflects a life dedicated to aligning with God's character and commands.