BibleProject | The Character of GodSýnishorn

What does it mean for God to be compassionate? Let’s take a look at the Hebrew word for compassion, rakhum. 

Interestingly, this word is related to the Hebrew word for womb, rehkem. This correlation helps us understand that compassion is a powerful way to describe the strong emotional bond between a parent and their child. And it’s the first word God uses to describe himself in Exodus 34:6-7. 

God is portrayed as a compassionate parent all throughout Scripture. And when we come to the story of Jesus, we see him embody the compassion of God. Jesus compared his feelings for people to that of a mother hen’s care for her young. And he suffered and labored so that many could live through him. Jesus demonstrates what God’s compassion looks like, and his followers are called to display that same compassion for one another.

Reflect:

1. How do the following passages portray God’s compassion?

2. How are we called to respond to God’s compassionate character?