GEN1542 Mercy is an extremely noble trait. It is one of the thirteen traits attributed to the Holy One Blessed be He, as it is written Exodus 34:6: “Merciful and gracious.” All that one can do in cultivating this trait, he should exert himself to do.   Just as one would want to be pitied in his time of need, so should he pity others who are in need, as it is written Leviticus 19:18: “And you should love your fellowman as yourself.” The Creator, Blessed be He, dispensed of this trait to His righteous servants as a distinguishing characteristic, as we find with Yosef, whose “mercies were kindled” [this verse].  It befits the wise man that the trait of mercy and graciousness be implanted in his heart all of his days.  TZADIK 141