### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective πολύσπλαγχνος (polýsplanchnos, `{{G4184}}`) is a compound word formed from πολύς (polýs, `{{G4183}}`), meaning "much" or "many," and σπλάγχνον (splánchnon, `{{G4698}}`), which literally refers to the "bowels" or "entrails." In ancient thought, the bowels were considered the seat of deep emotions, particularly tender affections, pity, and compassion. Therefore, πολύσπλαγχνος signifies an intense, profound, or "much-bowelled" compassion. It describes a state of being extremely compassionate, deeply moved with pity, or having a visceral, overwhelming sense of mercy. The term conveys not merely an intellectual understanding of suffering, but an empathetic resonance that stirs one to action, indicative of a profound emotional depth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term πολύσπλαγχνος (polýsplanchnos, `{{G4184}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the book of James:
* **[[James 5:11]]**: "Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy." (KJV)
In this singular occurrence, James uses πολύσπλαγχνος to describe the character of the Lord. The context is an exhortation to patience and endurance in suffering, drawing parallels with the steadfastness of the prophets and particularly the patriarch Job. After recounting Job's trials and eventual restoration, James concludes by highlighting the Lord's disposition. The phrase "the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy" (ὁ Κύριος πολύσπλαγχνος καὶ οἰκτίρμων ἐστίν) uses two strong terms to emphasize God's character. Πολύσπλαγχνος points to God's deep, internal, and active compassion, while οἰκτίρμων (oiktírmōn, `{{G3629}}`), meaning "merciful" or "compassionate," reinforces this attribute. The combination underscores that God's mercy is not superficial but profound and inherent to His being, especially evident in His dealings with those who patiently endure affliction. This verse serves as a powerful encouragement to believers facing hardship, assuring them of God's profound empathy and ultimate benevolent purpose.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is σπλάγχνον (splánchnon, `{{G4698}}`), from which πολύσπλαγχνος is derived. Σπλάγχνον itself is used in the New Testament to denote tender mercies or affections (e.g., [[Philippians 2:1]], [[Colossians 3:12]]).
Another significant related term is the verb σπλαγχνίζομαι (splanchnízomai, `{{G4697}}`), meaning "to be moved with compassion." This verb is frequently used to describe Jesus's deep compassion for the multitudes (e.g., [[Matthew 9:36]], [[Matthew 14:14]], [[Mark 6:34]]), the leper (e.g., [[Mark 1:41]]), or the grieving (e.g., [[Luke 7:13]]). It conveys a visceral, immediate, and often action-inducing pity.
Other Greek words conveying similar concepts of mercy and compassion include:
* ἔλεος (éleos, `{{G1656}}`): "mercy," often referring to God's active compassion and kindness towards those in need.
* οἰκτιρμός (oiktirmós, `{{G3628}}`): "compassion," "pity," often used in connection with God's tender mercies (e.g., [[Romans 12:1]], [[2 Corinthians 1:3]]). In [[James 5:11]], it is used alongside πολύσπλαγχνος.
These terms collectively paint a rich picture of divine and human empathy, highlighting a core aspect of God's character and a desired virtue for believers.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of πολύσπλαγχνος (polýsplanchnos, `{{G4184}}`) in [[James 5:11]] is profoundly significant for understanding the nature of God. By describing the Lord as "very pitiful" or "extremely compassionate," James provides a crucial theological anchor for believers undergoing trials. The term assures them that God's response to human suffering is not one of indifference or detachment, but of deep, internal, and active empathy.
This attribute of God is presented as the ultimate resolution and comfort for those who endure patiently, like Job. Despite Job's immense suffering and his inability to comprehend God's ways, the "end of the Lord" (τὸ τέλος Κυρίου) reveals His ultimate purpose was not punitive but redemptive and merciful. The Lord's πολύσπλαγχνος nature means He is intimately acquainted with and deeply moved by the afflictions of His people. This divine compassion is not merely a feeling but an active disposition that leads to merciful intervention and a just outcome. It underscores God's faithfulness and His commitment to His covenant people, even when their circumstances seem dire. For the suffering believer, this word offers immense comfort, knowing that the sovereign God, who permits trials, is simultaneously and profoundly compassionate towards them.
### Summary
Πολύσπλαγχνος (polýsplanchnos, `{{G4184}}`) is a powerful Greek adjective that literally means "much-bowelled," conveying the sense of being "extremely compassionate" or "very pitiful." It signifies a deep, visceral, and intense form of empathy and mercy, rooted in the ancient understanding of the bowels as the seat of profound emotions. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[James 5:11]] is highly significant, where it is used to describe the Lord's character: "the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy." This descriptor assures believers enduring hardship, like Job, that God's response to their suffering is not one of disinterest but of profound, active compassion. The term emphasizes God's inherent faithfulness and His benevolent disposition towards those who patiently endure trials, serving as a vital source of comfort and encouragement. It highlights a core aspect of divine love and mercy, demonstrating that God's empathy is not superficial but deeply ingrained in His very being.
TRV