CategoryTheological Term / Hebrew Concept
Modern Equivalentsteadfast covenant love; tender mercy; faithful, loyal love.
KJV Word TypeNoun
DefinitionThe KJV's translation of the Hebrew hesed — one of the richest theological words in the OT. It encompasses loyalty, covenant faithfulness, mercy, and love all in one. God's lovingkindness is the basis of His covenant with Israel and His ongoing faithfulness to His promises despite human failure.
Key Verses"Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee." (Psalm 63:3); "The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee." (Jeremiah 31:3)