From seeking mercy, to becoming worthy of blessings

The word mercy refers to benevolence, forgiveness, and kindness in different contexts.

- B.K. USHA

Mercy has been extolled as a great virtue in many religions, and is praised as one of the attributes of God. Some faiths emphasize performing acts of mercy -- such as giving alms and caring for the sick -- as a part of religious beliefs.

Compassionate behavior by those in positions of authority is also called mercy, such as the leniency shown by a judge to a convict.

In the Bible, God is said to be "merciful and gracious" and is praised for it. In Islam, Most Merciful is one of the names of God, and Compassionate is the most common name occurring in the Quran. Both Buddhism and Jainism hold 'karu na' or compassion to be an important virtue.

Mercy shown by one person to another reduces suffering, heals relationships, and serves the cause of justice.