Mercy is the compassionate treatment of those who are in distress or need. It involves showing kindness and forgiveness, especially when one has the power to punish or harm. Mercy can be seen in various contexts, such as in religious teachings, where it is often emphasized as a virtue, encouraging individuals to act with empathy and understanding. In legal systems, mercy may manifest as clemency, where a judge or authority reduces a punishment or grants a pardon. This act reflects a recognition of human fallibility and the belief in second chances, promoting rehabilitation over retribution.