Meaning of charity (what is it, concept and definition)

What is Charity:

Charity is known as the attitude of someone who acts disinterestedly in favor of others, expecting nothing in return. As such, it can be understood as a synonym for altruism, philanthropy, generosity or solidarity. The word comes from the Latin carĭtas , caritātis .

In this sense, charity is applicable to the different solidarity actions through which support is provided to those who need it. Offering food and shelter to the homeless, providing clothing to victims of a natural disaster, donating a certain amount of money to charitable foundations are all charitable actions.

Charity is closely associated with the values ​​that the Christian religion advocates, fundamentally that of love of neighbor. However, charity is basically expressed in the willingness to help and support the other, the neediest, without expecting reward.

In English, charity can be translated as charity . For example: “ The charity provides practical help for homeless people ”.

Charity in the Bible

In the Bible, charity is described as follows: “Charity is suffered, it is benign; charity is not envious, charity is not boastful, it is not puffed up; he does not do anything wrong, he does not seek his own, he is not irritated, he does not think evil; one does not rejoice in injustice, but rejoices in truth; He suffers everything, believes everything, expects everything, endures everything ”(1 Corinthians 13: 4-7).

In this sense, charity is at the core of Christian morality and is based on love for God and neighbor. It is already present in the commandments of the law of God: "Love God above all things", and in the preaching of Jesus Christ: "Love one another" (John: XIII: 34)

Charity in Christianity

In the Christian religion, charity is considered the most important of the three theological virtues, above faith and hope. As such, the object of charity is love of God above all things, which also translates into love of neighbor. Charity requires the practice of good; it is selfless and generous, and it provides the spirit with feelings of joy, peace and mercy.

Charity is fundamental to the life of the Christian because, as preached in the catechism of the Catholic Church, in it is the essence of Christianity and the teachings of Jesus Christ. In this sense, it is not possible to live a Christian life leaving charity aside.