The term "compassion" refers to a feeling of concern for people, especially for those who are suffering. A "compassionate" person cares about other people and helps them.
* In Paul's letter to the Colossians, he tells them to "clothe themselves with compassion." He is instructing them to care about people and to actively help others who are in need.
* The literal meaning of "compassion" is "bowels of mercy." This is an idiom that means "mercy" or "pity." Other languages may have their own idiom that means this.