Hearts in the Bible and in Literature

Most people have heard the phrase, “Have a heart,” which most often means to be merciful and compassionate to someone. This motif is seen in the Bible in Matthew chapter 5 verse 8 when Jesus says, “Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.” This passage indicates that no matter what, you should always be true and pure. Jesus is telling people to be humble and kind and if they are, they will be accepted into heaven. The idea of a heart serving as a moral compass is also seen in literature. In “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”, Huck is debating whether or not to turn Jim in, he is conflicted because on one side he would be breaking the law but on the other he would be treating someone unjustly. Huck decides to follow his heart because he realizes that he will not be punished for doing what is morally right. This decision ultimately leads him to save a friend. The heart motif can also be seen in other pieces of literary merit including:

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne