kshama

Kshama, written in Sanskrit as क्षमा, is a term that denotes forgiveness, forbearance, tolerance, or pardon. It is a valued virtue in Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist traditions and is also a common given name in the Indian subcontinent.

Etymology: The word derives from the Sanskrit root kṣam-, meaning to forgive or be patient. Kṣamā is the noun form referring to the quality or act of forgiving.

In religious and ethical contexts: In Hinduism, kshama is listed among essential moral virtues and is described as a readiness to pardon others and endure hardship without retaliation. It is often paired with compassion and self-control in moral discourses and prayers. In Jainism, forgiveness is a central practice; kṣamā appears in liturgies and confessional rites, and adherents may observe rituals of forgiveness, particularly during the annual Paryushan festival. In Buddhism, forbearance and patience are related virtues, and the concept of kṣamā appears in Sanskrit-language sources as an attribute of right conduct and non-violence.

Usage today: Kshama is used as a female given name in India and among the Indian diaspora. Notable individuals include Kshama Sawant, an Indian-American politician serving on the Seattle City Council, known for her advocacy on labor and social justice. The name remains a common cultural touchstone for virtues of mercy and calm in literary and religious contexts.