“UNDESERVED FAVOR”
"Grace" (חן, Chen) refers to unmerited favor or kindness shown by one entity to another, especially when the recipient is not necessarily deserving of such favor. In scripture, grace is the Divine benevolence shown to people, not based on their merits but on G-d's loving kindness. Grace encompasses both G-d's mercy in forgiving sins and His generosity in providing for His creations.
In the context of Divine grace, it encompasses G-d's merciful and compassionate treatment of humans, not based on their merit but on His benevolence. This can be seen in the way G-d interacts with individuals and the people of Israel throughout the Hebrew Bible, offering protection, guidance, and forgiveness, even when human actions might not warrant such kindness.
An instance of grace is seen in Exodus 33:17 which underscores the intimate relationship between Moses and G-d, highlighting how G-d's grace is bestowed upon those who seek Him genuinely.
"And the L-RD said unto Moses, 'I will do this thing also that thou hast spoken; for thou hast found grace in My sight, and I know thee by name.'"
Grace also plays a role in the covenantal relationship between G-d and Israel, where G-d's commitment to the people includes aspects of mercy, compassion, and grace that go beyond the strict deserts of their actions.
Comments