Conference paper
COMPASSION: AN EXPRESSION OF CHARITY IN TREATMENT OF PHYSICAL AND MENTAL ILLNESS IN INDIVIDUALS AND COMMUNITIES
Josip Bošnjaković
orcid.org/0000-0002-2324-8717
; Catholic Faculty of Theology in Đakovo,, University Josip Juraj Strossmayer of Osijek, Đakovo, Croatia Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Croatia, Zagreb, Croatia
Abstract
This article discusses the notion of compassion using interdisciplinary approach - theological and psychological - providing a
brief development of the notion, as well as distinct image in relation to other, similar notions. Seeing that compassion contributes to
psychological, spiritual, as well as socialhealth, the article also discusses the importance of compassion in life of individuals and
communities. Compassion is also one of the core notions in world religions, and it is key to making communication between religions
possible, and equally importantly, opens up a dialogue between religion and various scientific approaches. This article mostly refers
to the notion of compassion as described in the Bible, namely New Testament, from aspect of Christianity. Still, in a smaller extent,
we researched how Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Judaism perceive and describe compassion. Development of compassion in
personal and social relations greatly helps in achieving a healthier society, both for individuals and for the whole communities.
Key words:
Keywords
compassion; suffering; psychology; theology; religion
Hrčak ID:
272490
URI
Publication date:
19.10.2021.
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