English breakdown of Compassion = “to suffer together”

The Hebrew word is Rakhum

Closely related Rekhem – the word for womb.

Around 80% of the usage of Rakhum in the Old Testament is describing God’s compassion towards humanity.

Dimension #1: Rakhum compassion is a deep emotional movement toward someone.

Bible references:

1 Kings 3:16-28 (only display vs. 26)

Nehemiah 9:27-28

Psalm 103: 8, 13-14

Isaiah 49: 15-16

Two takeaways:

Humanity – even the People of God – are vulnerable, broken, make mistakes and turn away/betray God.Yahweh – the Creator – is ALWAYS positioned toward humanity with compassion because of His character.

Dimension #2: Rakhum compassion is action that is launched from this deep emotional movement.

Compassion is connected to two main actions:

ForgivenessDeliverance

Jesus is God’s biggest revelation of His compassion in its fullness

Isaiah 53: 4-12 (display vs 4-5 only)

Luke 23:34

Matt. 9:36

Matt. 20:34

Luke 7:13

Jesus IS the embodiment of the compassion of God AND He embodies that compassion for us.