Literal definition: Kindness. (Loving Kindness).
In other words: Nurturing. Giving. Warmth. Providing someone’s needs. Loving.
Expressions of Chesed: Chesed is loving-kindness. Chesed is all about acts of kindness that come from a place of genuine love. It involves nurturing, giving, providing for someone’s needs, and showing warmth and love. These acts can take many different forms, such as giving your time, talents, possessions, or anything else that someone may need or request from you.
Chesed is an expression of true soul-love, which enables us to go above and beyond ourselves to care for and connect with others. By allowing another person to experience us and by experiencing them, we can truly connect and create a positive impact. Loving-kindness is about giving freely, graciously, and unconditionally, with a generous heart that leaves the other person’s dignity and self-esteem intact. It involves giving to others on their terms, rather than imposing our own expectations upon them.
In order to achieve kindness, it is important to set aside our own agendas and focus solely on the recipient. This means considering how the recipient will perceive the gesture and providing support without expecting anything in return.
Sometimes, even small acts of kindness can have a greater impact than grand gestures. Chesed is a way of life that involves constantly seeking opportunities to show kindness and making a positive difference in the lives of others.