Meaning
Kindness is the quality of being considerate, generous, helpful, or caring toward others. It may be expressed through words, actions, generosity, or thoughtful treatment.
Biblical Usage
In 2 Samuel, kindness is demonstrated through acts of goodwill and generous treatment. David seeks to show kindness to someone from Saul’s household for Jonathan’s sake (2 Samuel 9:1). He restores Saul’s land to Mephibosheth and gives him a place at the king’s table (2 Samuel 9:7).
David also remembers the kindness shown by the men of Jabesh-gilead toward Saul (2 Samuel 2:5-6). Later, he intends to show kindness to Hanun because Hanun’s father had shown kindness to David (2 Samuel 10:2).
Original Languages
Hebrew: חֶסֶד (chesed) can express kindness, lovingkindness, mercy, or faithful love. It is associated with the kindness David seeks to show in 2 Samuel 9:1.
Greek: χρηστότης (chrēstotēs) means kindness, goodness, or graciousness. It is included as a related Greek term, not as the original wording of the Old Testament passage.
Key References
- 2 Samuel 2:5-6 — David commends the men of Jabesh-gilead for their kindness toward Saul.
- 2 Samuel 9:1-7 — David shows kindness to Mephibosheth for Jonathan’s sake.
- 2 Samuel 10:2 — David intends to show kindness to Hanun because his father had shown kindness to David.
Related Terms
Mercy; Faithful