Kindness
Culture & Societyâš¡ IN BRIEF (SUMMARY)
In the Old Testament, the Hebrew term hesed denotes loyal love, steadfast mercy, and covenantal faithfulness, applied to both divine and human interactions. In the New Testament, the Greek word chrestotes signifies moral goodness, benevolence, and the practical expression of favor toward others.
What is the meaning of Kindness in the Bible?
In the Old Testament, the Hebrew term hesed denotes loyal love, steadfast mercy, and covenantal faithfulness, applied to both divine and human interactions. In the New Testament, the Greek word chrestotes signifies moral goodness, benevolence, and the practical expression of favor toward others.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding these linguistic roots clarifies the biblical emphasis on active, covenantal loyalty and moral goodness as central components of righteous living and divine character.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Kindness in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Kindness clarify?
Source Attribution & Provenance
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been editorially modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and formatted for fast contextual reference.