### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **σπλάγχνον (splánchnon)**, represented by `{{G4698}}`, literally refers to an **intestine**, but is used figuratively throughout Scripture for **pity or sympathy**. It appears **11 times** across **11 unique verses**. Its usage moves from the physical viscera to the seat of the deepest human emotions, such as compassion and inward affection.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its rare literal sense, `{{G4698}}` describes the physical aftermath of Judas's death, where "all his **bowels** gushed out" [[Acts 1:18]]. However, it is most often used figuratively to denote a profound, heartfelt emotion. Believers are instructed to put on{G1746} "**bowels** of mercies" [[Colossians 3:12]], and God's visitation is attributed to His "tender **mercy**" [[Luke 1:78]]. This inner compassion can be either expressed or withheld, as seen when one "shutteth up{G2808} his **bowels** of compassion" from a brother{G80} in need{G5532} [[1 John 3:17]]. The term can also signify a deep personal connection, as when Paul describes his care for the Corinthians as his "inward **affection**" [[2 Corinthians 7:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the nature of this deep-seated compassion:
* `{{G3628}}` **oiktirmós** (pity): This word for **mercy** is frequently paired with `{{G4698}}`, emphasizing that the "bowels" are the source of pity. For example, believers are to put on{G1746} "bowels of **mercies**" [[Colossians 3:12]].
* `{{G1656}}` **éleos** (compassion): This term, also meaning **mercy**, is directly linked to `{{G4698}}` to describe God's active compassion toward humanity, as in the phrase "tender **mercy** of our God" [[Luke 1:78]].
* `{{G373}}` **anapaúō** (to refresh): This word describes the effect of compassion on others. Paul finds joy{G5485} because the **bowels** of the saints{G40} are **refreshed** by Philemon [[Philemon 1:7]], and he asks Philemon to **refresh** his own **bowels** in the Lord{G2962} [[Philemon 1:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4698}}` is significant, grounding compassion in a visceral, embodied experience.
* **Embodied Compassion:** By locating feelings like pity and sympathy in the **bowels**, the word insists that true compassion is not an abstract concept but a deeply felt, internal stirring. This is seen when believers are called to **put on**{G1746} "bowels of mercies" as part of their new identity as the elect{G1588} of God [[Colossians 3:12]].
* **The Proof of Love:** True affection is demonstrated by whether one's **bowels** are open or closed to others. The failure to act on a brother's{G80} **need**{G5532} by shutting up{G2808} one's **bowels** calls into question whether the **love**{G26} of God truly dwells{G3306} within that person [[1 John 3:17]].
* **Affection in Christ:** The term is elevated to describe the very nature of Christ's love. Paul's longing{G1971} for the believers is "in the **bowels** of Jesus{G2424} Christ{G5547}" [[Philippians 1:8]]. Furthermore, he refers to the returning slave Onesimus as "mine own{G1699} **bowels**" [[Philemon 1:12]], indicating a love so deep it is felt as part of his own being.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4698}}` transcends its literal meaning of an intestine to become a powerful biblical metaphor for the deepest seat of emotion. It signifies a profound, gut-level compassion that is meant to be active, not merely felt. From the gruesome end of Judas to the tender **mercy** of God, the word illustrates how biblical affection is not a detached sentiment but a visceral reality that reflects the very heart of Christ toward His people.
TRV