Definition of "compassion"

Oh! the unspeakable privilege to have Him for our Father, who is the Father of mercies and compassions, and those not barren, fruitless pityings, for He is withal the God of all consolations.

1849, Robert Leighton (Archbishop of Glasgow), A practical commentary upon the first Epistle of St. Peter (page 47)

Other people's problems, they overwhelm my mind / They say compassion is a virtue, but I don't have the time

1977, David Byrne (lyrics and music), “No Compassion”, in Talking Heads: 77, performed by Talking Heads

In many ways, people today lack compassion as a way to internalize and experience the inner soul of the other person, animals, and the universe. We need to reintroduce compassion so humanity may survive.

2002, Werner J. Krieglstein, Compassion: A New Philosophy of the Other‎, page 149

Ethics of compassion are grounded in one's mindful commitment to one's own happiness with the recognition that the well being that one wishes for oneself also is wished for by others.

2008, Richard Reilly, Ethics of Compassion: Bridging Ethical Theory and Religious Moral Discourse‎, page 1

From Master's words, I understand that having compassion does not mean allowing people to take advantage of us. We can be kind but we should uphold moral values.

2020 January 28, “My Understanding Of What It Means to Be Compassionate”, in Minghui‎

O heavens, can you hear a good man groan / And not relent, or not compassion him?

c. 1588–1593 (date written), William Shakespeare, “The Lamentable Tragedy of Titus Andronicus”, in Mr. William Shakespeares Comedies, Histories, & Tragedies […] (First Folio), London: […] Isaac Iaggard, and Ed[ward] Blount, published 1623, [Act IV, scene i], line 124

Both wanted in early life the one thing essential to every individual, of whatever nature or degree of intellect, a kind, compassioning adviser; - a true friend; […] .

1830, “The Last of the Supernaturalists”, in James Fraser, editor, Fraser's Magazine, volume 1, page 226

The widow's tears flowed wildly. / But Oh! a harbinger of life approached — / God, manifest in flesh — compassioned her, / And bade her weep no more.

1836, William A. Brewer, The Widow's Son, in Recreations of a Merchant; Or, The Christian Sketch-book‎, page 27