The Greek word splanchnízomai, represented by G4697, describes a deep, visceral feeling of pity. Derived from a word for the bowels, its base definition is "to have the bowels yearn," and it is used figuratively to feel sympathy or to have (be moved with) compassion. It appears 12 times across 12 unique verses in the Bible.
In the biblical narrative, G4697 is frequently used to describe the motivation behind Jesus's actions. He was moved with compassion for the multitudes because they were like sheep G4263 without a shepherd G4166, which led Him to teach them (Matthew 9:36, Mark 6:34). This same compassion moved Him to heal G2323 the sick Matthew 14:14 and to provide food for the hungry Matthew 15:32. The word is also central to parables that illustrate godly character, such as the father G3962 who had compassion on his returning son Luke 15:20 and the lord G2962 who forgave his servant's debt G1156 after being moved with compassion Matthew 18:27.
Several related words highlight the cause and effect of this deep compassion:
- G4166 poimḗn (a shepherd): The state of being without a shepherd is a primary reason for Jesus being moved with compassion for the multitudes, who were like sheep scattered and fainting Matthew 9:36.
- G2323 therapeúō (to relieve (of disease)): This action of healing is a direct result of compassion. When Jesus saw the great multitude, He was moved with compassion and healed their sick Matthew 14:14.
- G863 aphíēmi (to send forth, in various applications (as follow)): In the parable of the unmerciful servant, the lord's compassion is expressed when he forgave the man's debt Matthew 18:27.
The theological weight of G4697 demonstrates that true compassion is an active, divine quality.
- A Divine Motivator: This compassion is shown as a primary motivator for Jesus's ministry. It is His response to seeing human suffering, whether physical or spiritual. He had compassion on a grieving widow and told her not to weep Luke 7:13, and He was moved with compassion before healing two blind men Matthew 20:34.
- Action-Oriented Pity: In every instance, being "moved with compassion" is immediately followed by a merciful action. It is never a passive feeling. The Samaritan had compassion and then came to the man's aid Luke 10:33. Jesus felt compassion and then put forth G1614 His hand to touch and cleanse a leper Mark 1:41.
- The Heart of Forgiveness: Compassion is presented as the foundation of forgiveness. In a parable, a lord was moved with compassion and chose to forgive an enormous debt G1156 owed by his servant G1401 Matthew 18:27. Likewise, the father's compassion for his son precedes the celebration and restoration Luke 15:20.
In summary, G4697 is more than a simple word for pity; it signifies a profound, heartfelt response to need that mirrors the character of God. It is a compassion that sees, feels, and acts. Whether expressed by Jesus toward the lost and sick, or by characters in parables who represent divine mercy, this word consistently links a deep internal feeling with external acts of teaching, healing, forgiving, and restoring.
TRV