Forgiveness
as 'measure of giving away'
Morphological analysis
- Etymon: Forgiveness from Old English forġiefan: 'forgive'
- Morpheme breakdown: for: 'away' + give: functionally to 'transfer' + suffix -ness 'measure of' → 'measure of giving away'
Essential definition
Forgiveness is formally defined as the ontological measure by which one consciously transfers away a claim, grievance, or the right to retribution, thereby creating relational space.
Semantic context
- Conventional sense: To pardon (someone); to waive any negative feeling towards or desire for punishment or retribution against. (Note: Semantic drift from essential meaning)
- Essential meaning (my usage): measure of giving away
Philosophical significance
Defining forgiveness as a 'measure of giving away' establishes it as an ontological act that structures the very possibility of relationship. It is the necessary counter-gesture to atonement: the 'action to be at one' creating the space where difference can be sustained without conflict.
Usage in this lexicon
When I use the word forgiveness in my work, I mean exactly 'measure of giving away'. This definition:- establishes a relational framework by positioning forgiveness as an active offering within a dynamic exchange rather than a passive state;
- enables ontological space by creating the necessary room for difference to exist without leading to alienation or estrangement;
- completes a reciprocal cycle by functioning as the essential counterpart to atonement which allows a movement toward unity to be fulfilled;
- transforms the affect of difference by allowing the condition of being apart to be borne with dignity rather than as a source of unease;
- prevents relational absorption by giving away claims which prevents efforts at unity from becoming coercive or annihilating of otherness;
- generates conditions for plurality by making fruitful multiplicity possible through releasing the need to control or conform the other;
- grounds release in intentionality by framing it as a 'measure' which implies a conscious and deliberate act and not an automatic or trivial response;
- minimizes existential unease by structuring the release of retribution which directly reduces the friction or dukkha inherent in bearing difference;
- affirms the other's autonomy through the act of giving away which specifically acknowledges and respects the independent being of the other;
- completes the cause-and-effect of salvation by providing the necessary affect for atonement to realize its purpose within relational harmony.
Related terms
Sources
*This definition follows morphological essentialism principles. See the Methodology for details.
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