'The Quality of Mercy'

rosittajoseph
Nov 2
1 min read

William Shakespeare (1564-1616), in his famous play ‘The Merchant of Venice’ speaks of why mercy and compassion and forgiveness are the essence of human life. Mercy comes naturally, blessing both the giver and the receiver. It is more powerful than the might and terror of kings. It is the greatest quality a human being can ever have. It is a divine attribute and can transform any place into a paradise. Justice is great, but justice combined with mercy is matchless.

The Quality of Mercy

The quality of mercy is not strain'd.

It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven

Upon the place beneath. It is twice blest:

It blesseth him that gives, and him that takes.

'Tis mightiest in the mightiest; it becomes

The throned monarch better than his crown.

His scepter shows the force of temporal power,

The attribute to awe and majesty,

Wherein doth sit the dread and fear of kings;

But mercy is above this sceptered sway;

It is enthroned in the heart of kings;