prolonged from a primary (Latin cor, "heart"); the heart, i.e. (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle:--(+ broken-)heart(-ed).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kardía**, represented by `{{G2588}}`, refers to the **heart**. It appears **160 times** across **152 unique verses**, highlighting its role as the figurative center of human thoughts, feelings, and the mind. While it can refer to the middle of something, its primary biblical use is to denote the inner self.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2588}}` is used to describe the core of a person's being. It is the source from which both good and evil actions spring, as stated in the principle that "of the abundance of the **heart** his mouth speaketh" [[Luke 6:45]]. It is also the seat of genuine belief, as salvation is tied to believing in one's **heart** that God raised Jesus from the dead [[Romans 10:9]]. Under the new covenant, God promises to write His laws on the **hearts** of His people [[Hebrews 8:10]]. The condition of the **heart** is critical, whether it is pure [[Matthew 5:8]], troubled [[John 14:1]], or hardened [[Hebrews 3:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the faculties of the inner person:
* `{{G1271}}` **diánoia** (mind): This word signifies deep thought and the disposition of the mind. It is often used alongside **kardía** to express complete devotion, as in the command to love God with all your **heart**, soul, and **mind** [[Matthew 22:37]].
* `{{G1261}}` **dialogismós** (reasoning, thought): This term refers to internal consideration or debate. In a negative context, evil **thoughts** are said to proceed out of the **heart** [[Matthew 15:19]].
* `{{G5590}}` **psychḗ** (soul): Representing the sentient principle of life, it is distinguished from the rational spirit. The command to love God involves the whole person: **heart**, **soul**, and mind [[Luke 10:27]].
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (spirit): As the rational soul, it is distinct from both the physical heart and the soul. The Word of God is described as piercing to the division of **soul** and **spirit**, and is a discerner of the thoughts of the **heart** [[Hebrews 4:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2588}}` is central to understanding human nature and salvation.
* **The Source of Sin and Righteousness:** The **heart** is presented as the origin of human character. An unregenerate **heart** produces evil thoughts, murders, and adulteries [[Mark 7:21]], while a good **heart** brings forth good things [[Luke 6:45]].
* **The Locus of Divine Transformation:** God's redemptive work is focused on the **heart**. He opens the **heart** to receive the truth [[Acts 16:14]], purifies it [[James 4:8]], and establishes it with grace [[Hebrews 13:9]]. God sends the **Spirit** of His Son into believers' **hearts** [[Galatians 4:6]].
* **The Center of True Worship and Belief:** External actions are meaningless if the **heart** is far from God [[Mark 7:6]]. True faith is a matter of the **heart** [[Romans 10:10]], and worship should be done with grace in your **hearts** to the Lord [[Colossians 3:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2588}}` is a foundational concept in biblical anthropology and theology. It moves beyond the physical organ to represent the very core of a person's intellect, will, and emotions. The state of the **heart** determines one's moral and spiritual condition, making it the primary focus of God's judgment, conviction, and transformative grace.
TRV