Vergiffenis

Vergiffenis is a Dutch noun meaning forgiveness or pardon. It denotes both the act of forgiving someone and the state of having forgiven or being forgiven. In everyday language it covers interpersonal forgiveness and, in religious contexts, divine forgiveness of sins.

Etymology: The term originates from Middle Dutch vergiffenis, formed from the verb vergeven (to forgive) with the noun suffix -nis.

Contexts: Religious and moral usage often connect vergiffenis to repentance, grace, and reconciliation with others or with God. Interpersonally, it involves letting go of resentment and granting pardon to another person, which can enable restored relations and emotional relief for the forgiver and the forgiven.

Psychology and ethics: In secular discourse, forgiveness is studied as a cognitive–emotional process that can reduce hostility and improve well-being. The concept is explained through various models and approaches, including Enright’s Process Model and Worthington’s REACH model, which describe steps and conditions that facilitate forgiving.

Legal usage: In Dutch law, vergiffenis can refer to a pardon or clemency granted by a authority. However, the formal term for official mercy is gratie. A political act such as amnesty (amnistie) is distinct from individual vergiffenis and typically involves broader societal mercy rather than personal pardon.