Mercy (Middle English, from Anglo-French merci, from Medieval Latin merced-, merces, from Latin, "price paid, wages", from merc-, merxi "merchandise") is a broad term that refers to benevolence, forgiveness and kindness in a variety of ethical, religious, social and legal contexts.
The concept of a "Merciful God" appears in various religions, including Christianity 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.
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.
Read more about Mercy: Religion, Law and Ethics
Famous quotes containing the word mercy:
“Pity would be no more,
If we did not make somebody poor;
And mercy no more could be,
If all were as happy as we;”
—William Blake (1757–1827)
“These doctors, they’ve got no mercy on you, ‘specially if you’re black. Ah! I’ve seen ‘em, many a time, but, they never come after me, I never gave ‘em a chance—not the first time.”
—Sylvia Dubois (1788?–1889)
“Mercy is above this sceptred sway,
It is enthroned in the hearts of kings,
It is an attribute to God himself;
And earthly power doth then show likest God’s
When mercy seasons justice.”
—William Shakespeare (1564–1616)