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C1 noun #6,000 الأكثر شيوعاً 11 دقيقة للقراءة

die Barmherzigkeit

الأكثر شيوعاً #6,000

تدرّب عليها أمثلة ملاحظات ونصائح die Barmherzigkeit في 30 ثانية

الشرح die Barmherzigkeit in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'die Barmherzigkeit' is a very difficult word that you usually do not need to know. It is much too formal for beginners. However, you can think of it as a very strong version of 'helfen' (to help) or 'lieb sein' (to be nice). If you see this word, just remember it means someone is being very, very kind to someone who is sad or poor. It is like having a 'big heart'. You might see it on a sign for a church or a hospital. For now, focus on simpler words like 'nett', 'lieb', and 'helfen'. If you want to say someone is kind, say 'Er ist sehr nett.' You don't need to use 'Barmherzigkeit' yet, but it's good to know it's a 'heavy' word about love and help. Imagine a person giving food to a hungry person—that is a small part of what this word means. It is a feminine word, so we say 'die Barmherzigkeit'. It is long, but it has the word 'Herz' (heart) inside it, which is easy to remember!

سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل

At the A2 level, you might start to see 'die Barmherzigkeit' in simple stories or religious texts. It is a noun that means 'mercy' or 'pity'. It comes from two parts: 'barm' (an old word for pity) and 'Herz' (heart). So, it literally means having a heart that feels pity. You use it when someone in power helps someone who is in trouble. For example, if a king helps a poor man, that is 'Barmherzigkeit'. While you should still use easier words like 'Mitleid' (pity) or 'Hilfe' (help) in your own speaking, you should recognize this word when you read it. It is always feminine: 'die Barmherzigkeit'. A common phrase is 'ein Werk der Barmherzigkeit' (a work of mercy), like giving clothes to people who have none. It is a very formal word, so don't use it with your friends when they share their snacks with you! Use it for big, important acts of kindness.

سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل

At the B1 level, you should understand 'die Barmherzigkeit' as a significant cultural and religious term in German. It describes the virtue of showing compassion and mercy, especially toward those who are suffering or who have committed a fault. You will encounter this word in literature, in the news regarding humanitarian crises, or in historical contexts. It is more than just 'Mitleid' (pity); it is the active practice of kindness. For example, 'Die Organisation zeigt Barmherzigkeit gegenüber den Flüchtlingen' (The organization shows mercy/compassion toward the refugees). Grammatically, notice that it ends in '-keit', a common suffix for abstract nouns in German, which always makes the noun feminine. You should be able to identify the adjective form 'barmherzig' (merciful) as well. While you might not use the noun every day, knowing it will help you understand more complex texts about ethics and society.

سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل

At the B2 level, 'die Barmherzigkeit' becomes an important part of your formal vocabulary. You should be able to distinguish it from synonyms like 'Gnade' (grace/clemency) and 'Mitgefühl' (empathy). 'Barmherzigkeit' implies a deep, often religiously motivated compassion that leads to action. It is frequently used in the context of 'Barmherzigkeit walten lassen' (to exercise mercy), which is a high-level expression you might use in a formal essay about justice or social issues. You should also be aware of its historical weight, particularly the 'Seven Works of Mercy' which have influenced European art and social systems. When writing, using 'Barmherzigkeit' instead of 'Freundlichkeit' (friendliness) shows that you understand the moral depth of a situation. It is a word that conveys a sense of duty and profound humanity. Practice using it in sentences that involve significant moral choices or large-scale humanitarian efforts.

سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل

At the C1 level, you are expected to master the nuances of 'die Barmherzigkeit'. This word is a key element of sophisticated German prose. It is not just a synonym for mercy; it carries a specific connotation of 'misericordia'—a heart that reaches out to the miserable. You should use it to describe philosophical or theological concepts, or in legal contexts where clemency is discussed as a moral virtue rather than just a procedural act. Understanding the difference between the secular 'Solidarität' and the more traditional 'Barmherzigkeit' is crucial for high-level discourse. You should also be comfortable with its use in the genitive case ('die Unendlichkeit der Barmherzigkeit') and in complex compound words. In your speaking and writing, 'Barmherzigkeit' should be reserved for contexts that demand a high degree of formality and emotional or ethical weight. It is a powerful tool for expressing complex ideas about human nature and the social contract, particularly in the face of suffering and transgression.

At the C2 level, 'die Barmherzigkeit' is a word you should be able to analyze and use with complete precision. You understand its etymological roots in Middle High German and its role as a translation of the Latin 'misericordia'. You can discuss its presence in the works of Luther, Kant, or Schopenhauer, noting how its meaning has shifted from a purely religious mandate to a broader ethical principle. You should be able to use the word in subtle rhetorical ways, perhaps contrasting it with 'Gerechtigkeit' (justice) to explore the tension between law and love. Your mastery includes knowing when the word might sound archaic or overly 'pathos-gefüllt' (filled with pathos) and choosing it deliberately for that effect. You are also familiar with its rare plural form and its various derivatives. In professional or academic settings, you can employ 'Barmherzigkeit' to critique social policies or to interpret classical literature, demonstrating a deep cultural immersion and an exceptional command of the German language's most expressive registers.

سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل

تدرّب عليها أمثلة ملاحظات ونصائح

die Barmherzigkeit في 30 ثانية

A high-register German noun meaning 'mercy' or 'compassion', often used in religious, legal, and ethical contexts to describe active help or forgiveness.
Etymologically derived from 'poor' and 'heart', it describes a heart that feels for the suffering and acts to alleviate their pain or distress.
Grammatically feminine (die Barmherzigkeit), it frequently appears in formal phrases like 'Barmherzigkeit walten lassen' (to exercise mercy) or 'Werke der Barmherzigkeit'.
Distinguished from 'Mitleid' (feeling pity) by its emphasis on action and from 'Gnade' (grace) by its focus on compassionate character rather than just legal outcome.

The German word die Barmherzigkeit is a profound and multi-layered noun that translates most directly to 'mercy' or 'compassion' in English. At its linguistic core, the word is a beautiful compound that reveals its inner meaning: it combines the archaic root barm (related to 'pity' or 'poor') with Herz (heart) and the suffix -igkeit, which forms abstract nouns. Therefore, etymologically, it describes the state of having a 'pitying heart' or a 'heart for the poor.' In modern German usage, it is considered a high-register word, often found in religious, philosophical, legal, or highly formal literary contexts. It goes beyond simple kindness; it implies a power dynamic where someone in a position of strength or authority chooses to treat someone in distress or someone who has done wrong with leniency and active care. While 'Mitleid' refers to the feeling of pity, Barmherzigkeit refers to the active manifestation of that feeling through deeds. It is the virtue of showing grace when one has the right to be harsh. You will encounter this word frequently in the Bible (Luther-Bibel), in the works of classical authors like Goethe and Schiller, and in discussions regarding humanitarian aid or the legal concept of clemency.

Theological Context: In Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, this word describes a primary attribute of the Divine. It is the unconditional love and forgiveness granted to humanity despite their flaws.

Legal Context: When a judge or a head of state grants a pardon or reduces a sentence out of empathy for the perpetrator's circumstances, it is described as an act of mercy.

Humanitarian Context: Non-profit organizations often invoke this term to describe the altruistic drive to help those suffering from poverty, war, or natural disasters without expecting anything in return.

Ohne die göttliche Barmherzigkeit wäre die Welt ein kalter Ort.

Der König zeigte Barmherzigkeit und begnadigte den Gefangenen.

Echte Barmherzigkeit verlangt keine Gegenleistung.

Sie widmete ihr Leben den Werken der Barmherzigkeit.

Wir flehen um Ihre Barmherzigkeit in dieser schweren Stunde.

Furthermore, the word is often used in the context of the 'Seven Works of Mercy' (Die sieben Werke der Barmherzigkeit), which include feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, clothing the naked, sheltering the homeless, visiting the sick, visiting the imprisoned, and burying the dead. This historical and cultural baggage makes the word feel ancient and noble. In a modern secular society, it is sometimes replaced by 'Humanität' or 'Solidarität', but neither carries the same emotional and spiritual depth. When you use Barmherzigkeit, you are invoking a tradition of deep human connection that transcends mere rules and enters the realm of sacrificial love.

Using die Barmherzigkeit correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as a feminine noun and its typical syntactic environments. Because it is an abstract noun, it is frequently used without an article in certain fixed expressions, but it usually takes the definite article 'die' when referring to the concept in general. In the genitive case, which is common in formal writing, it becomes 'der Barmherzigkeit'. For example, 'ein Akt der Barmherzigkeit' (an act of mercy). It often functions as the object of verbs like 'zeigen' (to show), 'erflehen' (to plead for), 'üben' (to practice), or 'walten lassen' (to let prevail/exercise). The phrase 'Barmherzigkeit walten lassen' is a particularly common collocation in administrative or judicial contexts where someone chooses not to apply the full rigor of the law.

As a Direct Object: When you are the one receiving or giving mercy, the word acts as the accusative object. Example: 'Gott schenkt uns seine Barmherzigkeit' (God gives us His mercy).

In Prepositional Phrases: Common with 'aus' (out of). Example: 'Er half ihr aus reiner Barmherzigkeit' (He helped her out of pure mercy/charity).

Compound Construction: It often appears in compounds like 'Barmherzigkeitswerk' (work of mercy) or 'Barmherzigkeitsgebet' (prayer for mercy).

Trotz seiner Schuld hoffte er auf die Barmherzigkeit des Gerichts.

In seiner Rede betonte der Papst die Wichtigkeit der Barmherzigkeit.

Die Krankenschwester handelte aus tiefer Barmherzigkeit.

Es gibt keine Barmherzigkeit für Verräter in diesem Krieg.

Lassen Sie bitte Barmherzigkeit walten und verzeihen Sie ihm.

To use this word effectively in an essay or a speech, pair it with adjectives that emphasize its quality: 'unendliche Barmherzigkeit' (infinite mercy), 'göttliche Barmherzigkeit' (divine mercy), or 'menschliche Barmherzigkeit' (human mercy). In C1-level writing, using this word instead of the more common 'Hilfsbereitschaft' (willingness to help) demonstrates a sophisticated grasp of nuance, suggesting a moral or ethical imperative behind the action rather than just a helpful personality trait. It is a word that demands a certain gravity in the surrounding sentence structure, often leading to longer, more complex grammatical constructions typical of formal German prose.

While you might not hear Barmherzigkeit at the supermarket or in a nightclub, it is ubiquitous in specific spheres of German life. The most prominent place is within the church. Whether it is a Catholic Mass or a Protestant service, the concept of God's mercy is central to liturgy and hymns. If you listen to Bach’s oratorios or read the lyrics of traditional German carols, the word appears constantly. Beyond the religious sphere, you will hear it in political debates concerning refugees and social welfare. Politicians might appeal to the 'Barmherzigkeit' of the nation to support humanitarian causes, although they often prefer the word 'Solidarität' in secular policy discussions. Another common arena is classical theater and literature. If you go to see a play by Lessing, like 'Nathan der Weise', the themes of mercy and tolerance are central, and the word will be spoken frequently from the stage.

News and Media: In high-quality newspapers like 'Die Zeit' or 'FAZ', columnists use the term when writing about ethics, the failures of the justice system, or global inequality.

Charitable Organizations: Organizations like 'Misereor' or 'Caritas' (which is Latin for charity/love) often use the German equivalent 'Barmherzigkeit' in their mission statements and fundraising appeals.

Historical Documentaries: When discussing the history of hospitals (many were founded as 'Hospitäler des Heiligen Geistes' or by orders of 'Barmherzige Brüder'), the term is essential.

Der Pastor sprach über die Barmherzigkeit des samaritischen Mannes.

In der Oper 'Fidelio' ist die Barmherzigkeit ein zentrales Motiv.

Die Presse lobte die Barmherzigkeit der Helfer vor Ort.

Das Gesetz kennt in diesem Fall leider keine Barmherzigkeit.

Kulturkritiker fordern mehr Barmherzigkeit im digitalen Diskurs.

In summary, die Barmherzigkeit is a word that belongs to the 'elevated' German vocabulary. When you hear it, the speaker is likely making a moral argument, referencing a religious tradition, or speaking in a highly formal capacity. It signals that the topic at hand is of great ethical importance. Understanding this word allows you to navigate the deeper waters of German intellectual and spiritual life, providing a key to understanding centuries of literature and philosophy that have shaped the German-speaking world's approach to suffering and justice.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with die Barmherzigkeit is confusing it with its close synonyms like 'Mitleid' (pity/sympathy) or 'Gnade' (grace/clemency). While they are related, they are not interchangeable. 'Mitleid' is purely an emotion—feeling sorry for someone. You can feel 'Mitleid' without doing anything. Barmherzigkeit, however, is an action-oriented virtue; it implies that the feeling leads to a concrete act of help. 'Gnade' is more legalistic and top-down; it is often the official act of a sovereign or a judge. You might receive 'Gnade' (a pardon) because of the judge's Barmherzigkeit (compassionate nature). Another common error is grammatical: because the word is quite long and ends in '-keit', learners sometimes forget its gender (feminine) or try to pluralize it unnecessarily. While 'Barmherzigkeiten' exists, it is extremely rare and usually refers to specific individual acts of mercy, whereas the singular refers to the concept as a whole.

Confusing with 'Mitleid': Mistake: 'Ich habe Barmherzigkeit mit dir.' Correct: 'Ich habe Mitleid mit dir' (feeling) OR 'Ich erweise dir Barmherzigkeit' (action).

Misusing 'Gnade': 'Gnade' is often a 'yes/no' state (you are pardoned or not), whereas 'Barmherzigkeit' is a character trait or a quality of an action.

Register Mismatch: Using this word in a casual text message to a friend about a small favor sounds sarcastic or overly dramatic. Stick to 'Nettigkeit' or 'Gefallen' for small things.

Falsch: Der Lehrer hatte Barmherzigkeit und gab keine Hausaufgaben. (Too formal)

Richtig: Der Lehrer war gnädig und gab keine Hausaufgaben. (Better, but still slightly formal)

Falsch: Die Barmherzigkeit ist wichtig für Freunde. (Too heavy)

Richtig: Mitgefühl ist wichtig in einer Freundschaft. (More natural)

Falsch: Er bat um Barmherzigkeit, als er das Glas zerbrach. (Overly dramatic)

Finally, watch out for the spelling. It is a long word with several consonants that can be tricky. Remember it is 'Barm' + 'herz' + 'ig' + 'keit'. Some learners forget the 'h' in 'herz' or the 'g' before '-keit'. Practicing the breakdown of the word into its constituent parts—the 'poor heart'—not only helps with the meaning but also ensures you spell each component correctly. In academic or C1-level exams, using such a 'heavyweight' word correctly can significantly boost your score for 'Ausdrucksweise' (mode of expression), provided it fits the context perfectly.

To truly master die Barmherzigkeit, you must understand how it sits within a family of related concepts. German is rich in words for kindness and empathy, each with its own specific flavor. Understanding these nuances is what separates a B2 learner from a C1 or C2 speaker. The most common alternative is das Mitleid, which is the direct translation of 'pity'. It is something you feel internally. Then there is die Gnade, which translates to 'grace' or 'mercy' in a legal or sovereign sense. While Barmherzigkeit is often proactive and charitable, Gnade is often reactive—withholding a deserved punishment. Another important word is die Güte (goodness/kindness), which is a more general character trait. A person who is 'gütig' is generally kind, but a person who is 'barmherzig' specifically targets those in need.

Barmherzigkeit vs. Gnade: Barmherzigkeit is the inner motivation (compassion); Gnade is the outward result (the pardon). You show Barmherzigkeit by granting Gnade.

Barmherzigkeit vs. Mitgefühl: Mitgefühl (empathy) is more modern and secular. It suggests feeling 'with' someone, whereas Barmherzigkeit has a more traditional, almost saintly connotation.

Barmherzigkeit vs. Nächstenliebe: Nächstenliebe (charity/altruism) is the broader concept of loving one's neighbor. Barmherzigkeit is a specific way that love is expressed toward the suffering.

Das Mitleid allein hilft dem Bettler nicht; er braucht Barmherzigkeit.

Die Güte seiner Seele war in seinem ganzen Dorf bekannt.

Echte Humanität zeigt sich im Umgang mit den Schwächsten.

Er handelte aus Nachsicht, da er den Fehler des Jungen verstand.

Die Milde des Winters war ein Segen für die Obdachlosen.

Other less common synonyms include die Milde (mildness/leniency), which is often used for weather or for a light punishment, and die Nachsicht (forbearance/indulgence), which is used when someone 'looks the other way' regarding a small mistake. In philosophical texts, you might also find die Karitas, although this is almost exclusively used in the context of organized Christian charity. By learning these distinctions, you gain the ability to choose the exact 'temperature' and 'color' of the kindness you wish to describe, making your German much more expressive and precise.

How Formal Is It?

رسمي

"Wir ersuchen das Gericht, Barmherzigkeit walten zu lassen."

محايد

"Seine Barmherzigkeit gegenüber den Obdachlosen war beeindruckend."

غير رسمي

"Sei doch mal ein bisschen barmherzig und hilf mir!"

Child friendly

"Barmherzigkeit bedeutet, dass man ein ganz großes, liebes Herz für andere hat."

عامية

"Keine Barmherzigkeit, Alter! (No mercy, dude!)"

حقيقة ممتعة

The 'barm' part of the word is related to the word 'Erbarmen' but also shares a very ancient root with the English word 'arm' (as in the limb), suggesting the idea of 'embracing' someone in their poverty with one's heart.

دليل النطق

UK /baʁmˈhɛʁtsɪçkaɪt/

US /bɑrmˈhɛrtsɪɡkaɪt/

The primary stress is on the second syllable: barm-HER-zig-keit.

يتقافى مع

Gerechtigkeit Ehrlichkeit Dankbarkeit Heiterkeit Ewigkeit Einigkeit Höflichkeit Möglichkeit

أخطاء شائعة

Pronouncing 'barm' like 'barn'.
Omitting the 'h' in 'herzig'.
Pronouncing the 'z' like an English 'z' instead of 'ts'.
Stress on the first syllable.
Mixing up the 'ig' and 'keit' endings.

مستوى الصعوبة

القراءة 8/5

The word is long and abstract, appearing in dense, formal texts which can be challenging for non-native speakers.

الكتابة 9/5

Using it correctly requires a precise understanding of register and collocations to avoid sounding overly dramatic or archaic.

التحدث 7/5

Pronunciation is difficult due to the length and the 'z' and 'ch' sounds, but it is rarely needed in casual speech.

الاستماع 6/5

Easily recognizable once the 'Herz' component is known, but can be lost in fast, formal speech.

ماذا تتعلّم بعد ذلك

المتطلبات الأساسية

das Herz arm die Hilfe gut zeigen

تعلّم لاحقاً

die Gnade das Mitleid das Erbarmen die Gerechtigkeit die Tugend

متقدم

die Misericordia die Nachsicht die Klemmenz die Philanthropie die Altruismus

قواعد يجب معرفتها

Nouns ending in -keit are always feminine.

Die Barmherzigkeit, die Höflichkeit, die Dankbarkeit.

The genitive case for feminine nouns does not add an -s.

Das Ende der Barmherzigkeit.

Compound nouns take the gender of the last word.

Das Barmherzigkeitswerk (werk is neuter).

Adjectives derived from nouns with -ig ending.

Barmherzigkeit -> barmherzig.

Use of 'um' with 'bitten/flehen' for the object of desire.

Ich bitte um Barmherzigkeit.

سجّل مجاناً لقراءة الشرح الكامل

أمثلة حسب المستوى

Gott hat Barmherzigkeit.

God has mercy.

Simple subject-verb-object structure.

Die Frau zeigt Barmherzigkeit.

The woman shows mercy.

The noun 'Barmherzigkeit' is the direct object.

Barmherzigkeit ist gut.

Mercy is good.

Used as the subject of the sentence.

Wir brauchen Barmherzigkeit.

We need mercy.

Direct object in the accusative.

Er hat ein Herz voll Barmherzigkeit.

He has a heart full of mercy.

Used after 'voll' (full of).

Barmherzigkeit hilft armen Menschen.

Mercy helps poor people.

The noun acts as the subject performing an action.

Sie lernt über Barmherzigkeit.

She learns about mercy.

Used after the preposition 'über' (about).

Danke für deine Barmherzigkeit.

Thank you for your mercy.

Used after the preposition 'für' (for).

Der König hatte Barmherzigkeit mit dem Dieb.

The king had mercy on the thief.

Common construction: 'Barmherzigkeit haben mit' + Dative.

Barmherzigkeit ist ein wichtiges Wort in der Kirche.

Mercy is an important word in the church.

Attributive adjective 'wichtiges' modifying the subject.

Sie tun Werke der Barmherzigkeit.

They do works of mercy.

Genitive case: 'der Barmherzigkeit'.

Ohne Barmherzigkeit gibt es keinen Frieden.

Without mercy, there is no peace.

Used after 'ohne' which takes the accusative.

Er bittet um Barmherzigkeit.

He asks for mercy.

Verb 'bitten' + 'um' (for) + Accusative.

Die Barmherzigkeit Gottes ist groß.

The mercy of God is great.

Genitive construction showing possession.

Wir sollten mehr Barmherzigkeit zeigen.

We should show more mercy.

Modal verb 'sollten' with 'zeigen'.

Seine Barmherzigkeit rettete das Kind.

His mercy saved the child.

Possessive pronoun 'seine' matching the feminine noun.

In vielen Religionen ist Barmherzigkeit eine zentrale Tugend.

In many religions, mercy is a central virtue.

Abstract noun used as the subject in a general statement.

Er handelte aus reiner Barmherzigkeit, als er das Geld spendete.

He acted out of pure mercy when he donated the money.

Prepositional phrase 'aus' + adjective + noun.

Die Geschichte handelt von der Barmherzigkeit eines Fremden.

The story is about the mercy of a stranger.

'handeln von' + Dative case.

Man kann Barmherzigkeit nicht erzwingen.

One cannot force mercy.

Passive-like 'man' construction with a modal verb.

Die Barmherzigkeit ist ein Zeichen von wahrer Stärke.

Mercy is a sign of true strength.

Definite article used for an abstract concept.

Sie widmeten ihr Leben der Barmherzigkeit und der Pflege.

They dedicated their lives to mercy and care.

Dative object of the verb 'widmen'.

Trotz seiner Fehler hoffte er auf Barmherzigkeit.

Despite his mistakes, he hoped for mercy.

'hoffen auf' + Accusative.

Barmherzigkeit bedeutet, anderen zu vergeben.

Mercy means forgiving others.

Infinitive clause explaining the noun.

Das Gericht ließ Barmherzigkeit walten und reduzierte die Strafe.

The court exercised mercy and reduced the sentence.

Idiomatic expression 'Barmherzigkeit walten lassen'.

Echte Barmherzigkeit erfordert oft großen persönlichen Verzicht.

True mercy often requires great personal sacrifice.

Abstract subject with a transitive verb.

Die Flüchtlingshilfe ist ein modernes Beispiel für Barmherzigkeit.

Refugee aid is a modern example of mercy.

Genitive case used to define a category.

Wir flehen um Barmherzigkeit für die unschuldigen Opfer.

We plead for mercy for the innocent victims.

High-register verb 'flehen' with the preposition 'um'.

Seine Tat war von tiefer Barmherzigkeit geprägt.

His act was characterized by deep mercy.

Passive construction with 'von' + Dative.

Es mangelt in unserer Gesellschaft oft an Barmherzigkeit.

There is often a lack of mercy in our society.

Impersonal 'es mangelt an' + Dative.

Barmherzigkeit ist das Fundament jeder gerechten Gesellschaft.

Mercy is the foundation of every just society.

Metaphorical use of the noun as a foundation.

Sie appellierte an die Barmherzigkeit der Anwesenden.

She appealed to the mercy of those present.

'appellieren an' + Accusative.

Die philosophische Abhandlung untersucht das Spannungsfeld zwischen Gerechtigkeit und Barmherzigkeit.

The philosophical treatise examines the tension between justice and mercy.

Abstract nouns used in a complex academic context.

In Shakespeares Werken wird die Barmherzigkeit oft als göttliches Attribut dargestellt.

In Shakespeare's works, mercy is often depicted as a divine attribute.

Passive voice with an agent introduced by 'in'.

Die unendliche Barmherzigkeit ist ein Leitmotiv der christlichen Mystik.

Infinite mercy is a leitmotif of Christian mysticism.

Use of 'Leitmotiv' and complex adjectives.

Er plädierte für eine Politik der Barmherzigkeit gegenüber den Ausgestoßenen.

He advocated for a policy of mercy toward the outcasts.

Genitive construction within a prepositional phrase.

Barmherzigkeit darf nicht mit Schwäche verwechselt werden.

Mercy must not be confused with weakness.

Passive with modal verb and 'mit' + Dative.

Die Darstellung der Barmherzigkeit in der Kunstgeschichte ist äußerst vielfältig.

The depiction of mercy in art history is extremely diverse.

Noun-heavy academic sentence structure.

Jenseits aller Paragrafen bleibt die menschliche Barmherzigkeit das letzte Korrektiv.

Beyond all legal paragraphs, human mercy remains the final corrective.

Use of 'jenseits' (beyond) with genitive plural.

Die Barmherzigkeit transzendiert die bloße Einhaltung von Regeln.

Mercy transcends the mere adherence to rules.

High-register verb 'transzendieren'.

Schopenhauer sah im Mitleid die Wurzel der Barmherzigkeit und somit der gesamten Moralität.

Schopenhauer saw pity as the root of mercy and thus of all morality.

Complex philosophical argument linking multiple abstract nouns.

Die Dialektik von Härte und Barmherzigkeit durchzieht das gesamte Epos.

The dialectic of harshness and mercy runs through the entire epic.

Use of 'Dialektik' to describe a thematic structure.

Es bedarf einer tiefgreifenden Barmherzigkeit, um solche Gräueltaten zu verzeihen.

It requires profound mercy to forgive such atrocities.

Impersonal 'es bedarf' + Genitive.

In der säkularisierten Welt wird die Barmherzigkeit oft durch den Begriff der Empathie ersetzt.

In the secularized world, mercy is often replaced by the concept of empathy.

Passive voice describing a linguistic shift.

Die Barmherzigkeit ist keine bloße Emotion, sondern ein ontologischer Akt der Zuwendung.

Mercy is no mere emotion, but an ontological act of turning toward another.

Use of philosophical terminology like 'ontologisch'.

Inwiefern lässt sich Barmherzigkeit institutionalisieren, ohne ihr Wesen zu korrumpieren?

To what extent can mercy be institutionalized without corrupting its essence?

Indirect question using 'inwiefern' and reflexive passive.

Die Paradoxie der Barmherzigkeit liegt in ihrer gleichzeitigen Überflüssigkeit und Notwendigkeit.

The paradox of mercy lies in its simultaneous superfluity and necessity.

Genitive attributes used to describe a paradox.

Kants kategorischer Imperativ lässt wenig Raum für die Willkür der Barmherzigkeit.

Kant's categorical imperative leaves little room for the arbitrariness of mercy.

Genitive construction linking a philosopher's theory to the noun.

تلازمات شائعة

Barmherzigkeit walten lassen

um Barmherzigkeit flehen

göttliche Barmherzigkeit

Werke der Barmherzigkeit

aktive Barmherzigkeit

reine Barmherzigkeit

menschliche Barmherzigkeit

Barmherzigkeit erfahren

Barmherzigkeit zeigen

unendliche Barmherzigkeit

العبارات الشائعة

Ein Herz voller Barmherzigkeit

— Describes a person who is exceptionally compassionate. It emphasizes the emotional source of the virtue.

Sie war bekannt für ihr Herz voller Barmherzigkeit.

Barmherzigkeit ist keine Schwäche

— An ethical statement asserting that being merciful requires strength. Often used in political or philosophical debates.

Vergessen Sie nicht: Barmherzigkeit ist keine Schwäche.

Die sieben Werke der Barmherzigkeit

— Refers to the traditional list of charitable acts in Christian ethics. It is a culturally significant reference.

In der Schule lernten wir die sieben Werke der Barmherzigkeit.

Aus Barmherzigkeit handeln

— To do something purely because of one's compassionate nature. It explains the motive behind an action.

Er handelte nur aus Barmherzigkeit.

Keine Barmherzigkeit kennen

— To be ruthless or pitiless. Used to describe someone very harsh.

Der Feind kannte keine Barmherzigkeit.

Barmherzigkeit gegenüber den Armen

— A specific focus on helping the impoverished. This is the most classic use of the word.

Barmherzigkeit gegenüber den Armen ist unsere Pflicht.

Ein Akt der Barmherzigkeit

— A single specific deed of mercy. Useful for describing events.

Die Freilassung war ein Akt der Barmherzigkeit.

Barmherzigkeit erflehen

— To beg desperately for mercy. Very high register.

Die Verurteilten erflehten Barmherzigkeit.

Gnade vor Barmherzigkeit

— Though rare, it contrasts legal pardon with emotional compassion. Usually used in the reverse: Gnade vor Recht.

In diesem Fall ging Barmherzigkeit vor Recht.

Barmherzigkeit üben

— To practice mercy as a habit or discipline. Suggests a consistent lifestyle.

Wir sind aufgerufen, täglich Barmherzigkeit zu üben.

يُخلط عادةً مع

die Barmherzigkeit vs Mitleid

Mitleid is the internal feeling (pity); Barmherzigkeit is the external action or virtue.

die Barmherzigkeit vs Gnade

Gnade is often a formal pardon; Barmherzigkeit is the compassionate motivation for it.

die Barmherzigkeit vs Güte

Güte is general kindness; Barmherzigkeit is kindness specifically for those in deep distress.

تعبيرات اصطلاحية

"Gnade vor Recht ergehen lassen"

— To let mercy prevail over the strict letter of the law. This is the most common idiom related to the concept.

Der Polizist ließ Gnade vor Recht ergehen und gab ihm keinen Strafzettel.

Neutral/Formal

"Ein barmherziger Samariter sein"

— To be a Good Samaritan; to help someone in need without being asked. Derived from the biblical parable.

Er war ein barmherziger Samariter und half ihr beim Reifenwechsel.

Neutral

"Sich ein Herz fassen"

— To take heart/courage, but often in the context of finally showing kindness or doing the right thing.

Er fasste sich ein Herz und half dem Bettler.

Informal

"Das Herz am rechten Fleck haben"

— To have one's heart in the right place; to be fundamentally kind and merciful despite outward appearances.

Er ist zwar grob, aber er hat das Herz am rechten Fleck.

Informal

"Ein Herz aus Stein haben"

— To have a heart of stone; to be completely unmerciful and cold.

Der gierige Vermieter hat ein Herz aus Stein.

Neutral

"Jemandem sein Herz ausschütten"

— To pour one's heart out to someone, usually hoping for a merciful or empathetic ear.

Sie schüttete ihm ihr Herz aus.

Neutral

"Ein Herz und eine Seele sein"

— To be one heart and one soul; to be in perfect harmony, often through mutual compassion.

Die beiden Freunde waren ein Herz und eine Seele.

Neutral

"Etwas übers Herz bringen"

— To bring oneself to do something, often used in the negative to show that one's mercy prevents a harsh action.

Ich brachte es nicht übers Herz, die Katze wegzuschicken.

Neutral

"Jemandem das Herz brechen"

— To break someone's heart; the result of a total lack of mercy in a relationship.

Seine Treulosigkeit brach ihr das Herz.

Neutral

"Sich ein Beispiel nehmen an"

— To take an example from; often used when urging someone to follow an act of mercy.

Nimm dir ein Beispiel an seiner Barmherzigkeit!

Neutral

سهل الخلط

die Barmherzigkeit vs die Dankbarkeit

Both end in -keit and describe positive virtues.

Dankbarkeit is gratitude (feeling thankful), while Barmherzigkeit is mercy (feeling compassion).

Ich empfinde Dankbarkeit für deine Barmherzigkeit.

die Barmherzigkeit vs das Erbarmen

They share the same root 'barm'.

Erbarmen is often a more visceral, emotional impulse or a desperate plea, while Barmherzigkeit is a more stable virtue or concept.

Habe Erbarmen! (Have mercy!)

die Barmherzigkeit vs die Mildtätigkeit

Both relate to helping the poor.

Mildtätigkeit is specifically about giving alms or financial charity, while Barmherzigkeit is broader and includes emotional and spiritual mercy.

Seine Mildtätigkeit half der Suppenküche.

die Barmherzigkeit vs die Nachsicht

Both involve not punishing someone.

Nachsicht is usually about small mistakes (patience), while Barmherzigkeit is about significant suffering or guilt.

Der Lehrer übte Nachsicht bei dem Tippfehler.

die Barmherzigkeit vs die Gerechtigkeit

They are often discussed together as opposing or complementary concepts.

Gerechtigkeit is giving everyone what they deserve; Barmherzigkeit is giving someone better than they deserve.

Gerechtigkeit fordert Strafe, Barmherzigkeit fordert Vergebung.

أنماط الجُمل

Subjekt + hat + Barmherzigkeit + mit + Dativ.

Er hat Barmherzigkeit mit mir.

Subjekt + handelt + aus + Barmherzigkeit.

Sie handelt aus Barmherzigkeit.

Subjekt + lässt + Barmherzigkeit + walten.

Der Chef ließ Barmherzigkeit walten.

Die + Adjektiv + Barmherzigkeit + Verb + Objekt.

Die unendliche Barmherzigkeit rettete das Volk.

Ein + Akt + der + Barmherzigkeit.

Das war ein Akt der Barmherzigkeit.

Inwiefern + Verb + sich + Barmherzigkeit + ...?

Inwiefern lässt sich Barmherzigkeit begründen?

Das + Spannungsfeld + zwischen + Gerechtigkeit + und + Barmherzigkeit.

Wir untersuchen das Spannungsfeld zwischen Gerechtigkeit und Barmherzigkeit.

Subjekt + bittet/fleht + um + Barmherzigkeit.

Das Volk fleht um Barmherzigkeit.

عائلة الكلمة

الأسماء

الأفعال

الصفات

مرتبط

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كيفية الاستخدام

frequency

Low in daily speech, high in specific formal and religious domains.

أخطاء شائعة

Ich habe Barmherzigkeit für dich. → Ich habe Mitleid mit dir.
In casual settings, use 'Mitleid mit jemandem haben'. 'Barmherzigkeit' is too formal for simple sympathy.
Der Barmherzigkeit von Gott ist groß. → Die Barmherzigkeit Gottes ist groß.
Remember that 'Barmherzigkeit' is feminine (die) and use the genitive case properly for 'Gott'.
Er zeigte seine Barmherzigkeits. → Er zeigte seine Barmherzigkeit.
Feminine nouns do not take an '-s' in the accusative or genitive singular.
Kannst du mir Barmherzigkeit zeigen und mir das Salz geben? → Kannst du mir bitte das Salz geben?
This is a register error. Using 'Barmherzigkeit' for small favors is confusing and sounds like a joke.
Das ist ein barmherzige Akt. → Das ist ein barmherziger Akt.
The adjective 'barmherzig' needs the correct ending for a masculine noun (der Akt) in the nominative.

نصائح

Always Feminine

Any noun ending in '-keit' is feminine. This makes it easy to remember the article: it's always 'die Barmherzigkeit'. No exceptions!

The 'Herz' Connection

Remembering that 'Herz' (heart) is inside the word will help you both with the spelling and with understanding its deep emotional meaning.

Use with Caution

Because it's a very formal and heavy word, using it in casual conversation can sound sarcastic or weirdly dramatic. Save it for serious topics.

Pair with 'walten'

If you want to sound like a native speaker in a formal setting, use the phrase 'Barmherzigkeit walten lassen'. It sounds very sophisticated.

Look for it in Church

If you visit a German church or read a German Bible, look for this word. It's one of the most important concepts in Christian German.

Genitive Mastery

In formal writing, use the genitive: 'die Werke der Barmherzigkeit'. It flows better than using 'von' and shows high-level grammar skills.

The Poor Heart

Think of 'Arm' (poor) and 'Herz' (heart). A heart for the poor. That is the essence of Barmherzigkeit.

The 'z' is 'ts'

Make sure to pronounce the 'z' in 'herzig' as a crisp 'ts' sound. This is a common mistake for English speakers.

Barmherzig vs. Gütig

Use 'gütig' for a generally kind person, but 'barmherzig' for a person who specifically helps someone in a desperate situation.

Nathan der Weise

Read Gotthold Ephraim Lessing's 'Nathan der Weise' to see the concept of Barmherzigkeit and tolerance in action in classical German literature.

احفظها

وسيلة تذكّر

Think of 'Barmherzigkeit' as 'B-Arm-Herz-Ig-Keit'. Imagine someone with a 'Big Arm' reaching out from their 'Herz' (heart) to help an 'Armen' (poor person). The 'Big Arm' represents the power to help, and the 'Herz' represents the love.

ربط بصري

Imagine a giant, glowing heart floating over a dark, cold city, with golden light (mercy) raining down on the people below.

Word Web

Herz (Heart) Gnade (Grace) Arm (Poor) Mitleid (Pity) Vergebung (Forgiveness) Liebe (Love) Helfen (Help) Gott (God)

تحدٍّ

Try to write a short paragraph about a time you showed 'Barmherzigkeit' or saw someone else show it. Use at least three related words from the word family.

أصل الكلمة

The word originates from the Old High German 'armherzi', which was a literal translation of the Latin 'misericors' (miserable + heart). The prefix 'b-' or 'be-' was added later in Middle High German to form 'barmherzic'. The suffix '-keit' was added to create the abstract noun. It has been a central term in German theological language since the time of the earliest Bible translations.

المعنى الأصلي: Having a heart for the poor or the miserable.

Germanic (with Latin conceptual influence).

السياق الثقافي

Be careful not to sound patronizing. 'Barmherzigkeit' implies a hierarchy (one is stronger than the other). In modern equal relationships, 'Mitgefühl' or 'Respekt' is often preferred.

The English 'mercy' is often more associated with the legal 'begging for mercy', whereas 'Barmherzigkeit' has a stronger 'charity' and 'pity' component.

Martin Luther's translation of the Psalms (Psalm 103). Rembrandt's painting 'The Return of the Prodigal Son' (often discussed in German as a study of Barmherzigkeit). The 'Barmherzige Brüder' hospitals found in many German cities.

تدرّب في الحياة الواقعية

سياقات واقعية

Religious Settings

Die göttliche Barmherzigkeit
Ein barmherziger Gott
Werke der Barmherzigkeit
Gott, sei uns barmherzig

Legal and Judicial

Barmherzigkeit walten lassen
Um Barmherzigkeit bitten
Ein Gnadengesuch einreichen
Mildernde Umstände

Humanitarian Aid

Humanitäre Hilfe
Aktive Barmherzigkeit
Solidarität mit den Armen
Hilfe zur Selbsthilfe

Literature and Arts

Ein zentrales Motiv
Die Darstellung der Barmherzigkeit
Literarischer Topos
Moralische Instanz

Personal Ethics

Ein barmherziges Herz
Mitgefühl zeigen
Jemandem vergeben
Uneigennützig handeln

بدايات محادثة

"Glauben Sie, dass Barmherzigkeit in unserer heutigen Gesellschaft noch eine Rolle spielt?"

"Was ist für Sie der Unterschied zwischen Barmherzigkeit und bloßem Mitleid?"

"Haben Sie schon einmal Barmherzigkeit von einer fremden Person erfahren?"

"Sollte das Rechtssystem mehr Barmherzigkeit oder mehr strikte Gerechtigkeit zeigen?"

"Kennen Sie berühmte Beispiele für Barmherzigkeit in der Geschichte oder Literatur?"

مواضيع للكتابة اليومية

Reflektiere über eine Situation, in der du Barmherzigkeit hättest zeigen können, es aber nicht getan hast. Wie fühlst du dich heute dabei?

Schreibe eine fiktive Geschichte über einen König, der zwischen seinem Gesetz und seiner Barmherzigkeit wählen muss.

Inwiefern ist Barmherzigkeit eine Form von Stärke und nicht von Schwäche? Begründe deine Meinung.

Beschreibe eine Person in deinem Leben, die für dich das Konzept der Barmherzigkeit verkörpert.

Wie würde eine Welt aussehen, in der es absolut keine Barmherzigkeit gibt, sondern nur noch starre Regeln?

الأسئلة الشائعة

10 أسئلة

Nein, es ist nicht veraltet, aber es gehört zum gehobenen Wortschatz. In der Alltagssprache wird es selten verwendet, aber in der Kirche, in der Literatur und in ethischen Diskussionen ist es nach wie vor sehr präsent. Es hat einen zeitlosen, edlen Charakter.

'Barmherzig' bezieht sich mehr auf das Gefühl des Mitleids und die daraus folgende Hilfe. 'Gnädig' wird oft verwendet, wenn jemand in einer höheren Position (wie ein König oder Chef) auf eine Strafe verzichtet. 'Gnädig' kann manchmal auch leicht herablassend klingen, während 'barmherzig' immer positiv besetzt ist.

Theoretisch ja (die Barmherzigkeiten), aber in der Praxis ist das extrem selten. Es würde dann einzelne Taten der Barmherzigkeit bezeichnen. Meistens verwendet man das Wort als unzählbares Abstraktum im Singular.

Das kommt auf den Kontext an. In religiösem Kontext meistens 'Barmherzigkeit'. Wenn es um eine Begnadigung vor Gericht geht, eher 'Gnade'. Wenn es um das Gefühl geht, 'Erbarmen' oder 'Mitleid'. 'Barmherzigkeit' ist die umfassendste und edelste Übersetzung.

Weil die Tugend aus dem Herzen kommt. Die Etymologie zeigt, dass man ein 'pitying heart' (ein erbarmendes Herz) hat. Es unterstreicht, dass wahre Hilfe nicht nur eine rationale Entscheidung ist, sondern eine emotionale Verbundenheit erfordert.

Ja, das direkteste Gegenteil ist 'Unbarmherzigkeit'. Man kann aber auch 'Grausamkeit', 'Härte' oder 'Erbarmungslosigkeit' als Antonyme verwenden, je nachdem, wie stark man den Mangel an Mitleid betonen möchte.

Die bekannteste ist 'Barmherzigkeit walten lassen'. Auch 'die sieben Werke der Barmherzigkeit' ist ein fester Begriff. In der Bibel findet man oft 'Gott sei mir Sünder barmherzig'.

Es ist feminin: die Barmherzigkeit. Das liegt an der Endung '-keit', die im Deutschen immer feminine Nomen bildet. Das ist eine sehr hilfreiche Regel für Deutschlerner.

Benutze 'Mitleid', wenn du einfach nur sagen willst, dass dir jemand leidtut. 'Barmherzigkeit' ist viel stärker und formeller. Wenn du mit Freunden redest, ist 'Mitleid' fast immer die bessere Wahl.

Eigentlich nicht, es ist eine Tugend. Aber in manchen philosophischen Debatten wird diskutiert, ob zu viel Barmherzigkeit die Gerechtigkeit schwächen kann. In diesem speziellen Kontext könnte man es kritisch hinterfragen.

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