### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **eúsplanchnos**, represented by `{{G2155}}`, means to be **well compassioned** or **sympathetic**. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible and is translated as **pitiful** or **tender-hearted**. The term is derived from εὖ (well) and σπλάγχνον, referring to the inward parts, signifying a deep, internal compassion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2155}}` describes a core Christian virtue. In Ephesians, believers are commanded to be "kind one to another, **tenderhearted**, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you" [[Ephesians 4:32]]. Here, a tender heart is presented as the foundation for granting forgiveness within the community. In [[1 Peter 3:8]], the word, translated as **pitiful**, is included in a list of unifying characteristics for believers: "be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be **pitiful**, be courteous."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G2155}}` by appearing alongside it in scripture:
* `{{G5543}}` **chrēstós** (kind): This word means useful, gracious, or **kind**. It is used directly before **tenderhearted** in [[Ephesians 4:32]], indicating that kindness is an outward expression of this inner compassion.
* `{{G5483}}` **charízomai** (forgiving): Defined as to grant as a favor, pardon, or **forgive**, this action is presented as the direct outcome of being **tenderhearted** [[Ephesians 4:32]].
* `{{G4835}}` **sympathḗs** (having compassion one of another): Meaning to have a fellow-feeling or be mutually commiserative, this term appears with **pitiful** in [[1 Peter 3:8]], highlighting a shared emotional and sympathetic bond.
* `{{G5361}}` **philádelphos** (love as brethren): This term for being fond of brethren, or fraternal, is also listed in [[1 Peter 3:8]], connecting the quality of being **pitiful** with brotherly love in the church.
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{G2155}}` is demonstrated in its direct application to the life of a believer.
* **A Mandated Virtue:** Both occurrences of **eúsplanchnos** are part of a direct command to believers, establishing it not as an optional feeling but as a required element of Christian character ([[Ephesians 4:32]], [[1 Peter 3:8]]).
* **Foundation for Forgiveness:** The word is explicitly linked to the act of forgiveness. [[Ephesians 4:32]] shows that a **tenderhearted** disposition is what enables believers to forgive one another.
* **Reflection of God's Character:** The call to be **tenderhearted** is modeled after God Himself. The basis for forgiving others is that "God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you" [[Ephesians 4:32]], framing human compassion as an imitation of divine grace.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2155}}` is not merely a word for sympathy but a key descriptor of a transformed heart. It is a foundational virtue that is paired with kindness, brotherly love, and compassion. As seen in scripture, being **tender-hearted** or **pitiful** is a required Christian characteristic that enables forgiveness and reflects the compassionate nature of God toward humanity.
TRV