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The concept of Compassion in Christianity

Compassion, as described in Christianity, entails a profound awareness of another's suffering and is exemplified by the father's joy upon his son's return and Jesus's forgiveness towards his crucifiers. This quality signifies the Lord's attributes and is an essential aspect of existence. In Gnosticism, compassion is portrayed as a divine gift, symbolizing grace and mercy, especially through the character of Pistis Sophia seeking relief from distress. Ultimately, compassion is recognized in Early Christianity as a vital quality that underscores sympathy and concern for those in need.1
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Synonyms: Empathy, Sympathy, Kindness, Understanding, Pity, Benevolence, Concern, Care, Solicitude, Humanity, Mercy, Charity, Sensitivity, Warmth.

In French: Compassion; In Dutch: Medeleven; In Finnish: ²Ñ²âö³Ùä³Ù³Ü²Ô³Ù´Ç; In Spanish: °ä´Ç³¾±è²¹²õ¾±Ã³²Ô; In German: ²Ñ¾±³Ù²µ±ð´Úü³ó±ô; In Swedish: Medlidande; In Malay: Belas kasihan

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Christian concept of 'Compassion'

Christianity Books

Significance in Christianity (general):

From: Expositions of Holy Scripture

(1) The text presents compassion as a key aspect of Jesus's character, as he shows compassion towards those who crucified him, and it is an important quality.[1] (2) A deep awareness of and sympathy for another's suffering, demonstrated by the father upon seeing his son return.[2]

From: Hymns for Christian Devotion

(1) The text highlights that these are numerous and recently experienced, demonstrating the Lord's attributes, and they are a continuous part of existence.[3]

Significance in Early Christian church and writers:
Early Christianity Books

From: Ante-nicene Fathers

(1) This is the feminine aspect of philanthropy, which is a feeling of sympathy and concern for others, especially those who are suffering, and is a key element of performing good deeds.[4] (2) The quality of showing sympathy and concern for others, particularly the needy.[5]

Early Christianity (also known as Early Church) refers to the period starting roughly in the 6th century BC up until 325 A.D. during which year the first council of Nicaea was convened. Popular literature includes the writings by the early Church Fathers which forms the basis of later Christian theology.

Gnostic concept of 'Compassion'

Gnosticism Books

Significance in Gnosticism (Mystical or Esoteric Christianity):

From: Pistis Sophia

(1) Compassion is something that can be received, and it is mentioned in the context of being wreathed with grace and compassion, emphasizing divine care.[6] (2) Refers to the merciful quality of light that Pistis Sophia calls upon for deliverance from her suffering and distress.[7]