Forgiveness
as 'measure of giving away'
Morphological Analysis
- Etymon: 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 enables:
- Establishes a Relational Framework: Positions forgiveness as an active offering within a dynamic exchange, rather than a passive state.
- Enables Ontological Space: Creates the necessary room for difference to exist without leading to alienation or estrangement.
- Completes a Reciprocal Cycle: Functions as the essential counterpart to atonement, allowing a movement toward unity to be fulfilled.
- Transforms the Affect of Difference: Allows the condition of being apart to be borne with dignity rather than as a source of unease.
- Prevents Relational Absorption: By giving away claims, it prevents efforts at unity from becoming coercive or annihilating of otherness.
- Generates Conditions for Plurality: Makes fruitful multiplicity possible by releasing the need to control or conform the other.
- Grounds Release in Intentionality: Framing it as a 'measure' implies a conscious, deliberate act, not an automatic or trivial response.
- Minimizes Existential Unease: By structuring the release of retribution, it directly reduces the friction (dukkha) inherent in bearing difference.
- Affirms the Other's Autonomy: The act of giving away specifically acknowledges and respects the independent being of the other.
- Completes the Cause-and-Effect of Salvation: Provides the necessary affect for atonement to realize its purpose within relational harmony.
Related Terms
Sources
This definition follows morphological essentialism principles. See [[Methodology]] for details.