probably strengthened from (the "spleen"); an intestine (plural); figuratively, pity or sympathy:--bowels, inward affection, + tender mercy.
Transliteration:splánchnon
Pronunciation:splangkh'-non
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term σπλάγχνον (splánchnon, `{{G4698}}`) primarily refers to the "inward parts" or "viscera" of the body, specifically the intestines or bowels. In ancient thought, these organs were considered the seat of the deepest emotions and affections, much as the heart or mind are understood in modern Western thought. Therefore, the word undergoes a significant semantic extension from its literal anatomical meaning to a profound figurative sense. Figuratively, it denotes deep-seated feelings of pity, compassion, sympathy, and tender mercy. It suggests a visceral, gut-level response to the suffering or needs of others, rather than a mere intellectual acknowledgment. The plural form is often used to emphasize the intensity and totality of these inward affections.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While its literal sense is rare in the New Testament, σπλάγχνον (splánchnon, `{{G4698}}`) is predominantly used in its figurative meaning, conveying profound emotional depth.
* In [[Luke 15:20]], describing the father's reaction to his prodigal son's return, "he had compassion" (ἐσπλαγχνίσθη, a verb derived from splánchnon) vividly portrays a deep, gut-wrenching pity that compelled him to run and embrace his son.
* Similarly, in the Parable of the Good Samaritan, the Samaritan "had compassion" ([[Luke 10:33]]) upon seeing the injured man, prompting immediate and sacrificial action. This illustrates that true compassion is not passive but leads to tangible help.
* Paul frequently uses the term to describe his deep affection for believers. In [[Philippians 1:8]], he declares his longing for the Philippians "in the bowels of Jesus Christ," signifying an affection that mirrors Christ's own profound love and empathy.
* In [[Philippians 2:1]], he appeals to the believers by "any bowels and mercies," urging them towards unity rooted in shared spiritual affection.
* [[Colossians 3:12]] exhorts believers to "put on bowels of mercies" (σπλάγχνα οἰκτιρμοῦ), alongside kindness, humility, meekness, and longsuffering, highlighting that deep compassion is a foundational virtue for the Christian life.
* The apostle John challenges believers in [[1 John 3:17]], asking how the love of God can dwell in one who "shuts up his bowels of compassion" (κλείει τὰ σπλάγχνα αὐτοῦ) from a brother in need. This verse underscores that genuine love is demonstrated through action motivated by deep empathy.
* In [[Philemon 1:7]] and [[Philemon 1:12]], Paul speaks of refreshing the "bowels" of the saints and Onesimus being his "own bowels," indicating a profound spiritual bond and affection that deeply impacts him.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept expressed by σπλάγχνον (splánchnon, `{{G4698}}`) is closely related to other Greek words for mercy and compassion, such as ἔλεος (eleos, `{{G1656}}`, mercy) and οἰκτιρμός (oiktirmos, `{{G3628}}`, compassion, pity). While *eleos* often denotes active kindness towards the miserable and *oiktirmos* emphasizes a feeling of sorrow for another's distress, *splánchnon* uniquely points to the *seat* or *source* of these emotions—the innermost being. It conveys a more intense, personal, and physically felt empathy.
This semantic range finds a strong parallel in the Hebrew Bible, particularly with the root רחם (racham, `{{H7355}}`), from which the noun רחמים (rachamim, `{{H7356}}`) is derived. This root literally refers to the "womb" and figuratively to deep, maternal-like compassion. Both *splánchnon* and *rachamim* connect a physical organ (intestines/womb) to the profound, instinctive, and often painful feelings of pity and tender mercy. This cross-cultural linguistic phenomenon highlights a shared ancient understanding of emotions as rooted in the physical body, particularly the viscera.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of σπλάγχνον (splánchnon, `{{G4698}}`) is profound, revealing the depth of divine and human compassion.
Firstly, it illuminates the character of God and Christ. When the New Testament describes Jesus as being "moved with compassion" (often using the verb ἐσπλαγχνίσθη), it portrays His empathy not as a detached sentiment but as a deep, visceral response to human suffering, whether it be the sick, the hungry, the lost, or the grieving (e.g., [[Matthew 9:36]], [[Matthew 14:14]], [[Mark 6:34]], [[Luke 7:13]]). This deep compassion is a core attribute of God, who is "rich in mercy" ([[Ephesians 2:4]]) and whose "tender mercies" are over all His works ([[Psalm 145:9]] LXX). The father in the Parable of the Prodigal Son vividly embodies this divine, gut-level compassion.
Secondly, for believers, σπλάγχνον (splánchnon, `{{G4698}}`) serves as a call to embody Christ-like compassion. Christians are commanded to "put on bowels of mercies" ([[Colossians 3:12]]), indicating that this deep, heartfelt empathy is not optional but a fundamental aspect of the renewed self. It implies an inward transformation that leads to outward acts of kindness and generosity. The failure to show such compassion, as warned in [[1 John 3:17]], contradicts the very nature of God's love dwelling within a believer. Thus, the word emphasizes that Christian love is not merely intellectual assent but a profound, emotional identification with the needs and sufferings of others, leading to active care.
### Summary
σπλάγχνον (splánchnon, `{{G4698}}`) is a powerful Greek term that transitions from its literal meaning of "inward parts" or "bowels" to signify deep, visceral compassion and tender mercy. In the New Testament, it consistently describes a profound, gut-level empathy that motivates action, whether in God, Christ, or believers. It highlights that true compassion is not superficial but a deep-seated, internal response to human need and suffering. The word underscores the holistic nature of biblical anthropology, where emotions are deeply intertwined with one's being, and it serves as a theological imperative for Christians to cultivate and express heartfelt, active mercy towards others, mirroring the very character of God.
TRV