σπλάγχνον (splagchnon)
splagchnon
affection/entrails
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 11 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word splagchnon literally refers to the inward parts, such as the intestines or entrails. In ancient thought, these organs were not seen merely as biological tissue but as the physical seat of deep emotion. While classical Greek writers sometimes associated them with anger or anxiety, the New Testament adopts a distinctly Hebrew perspective, viewing them as the center of tender affection and compassion.
This shift in meaning gives the word significant emotional weight. It appears frequently in Paul’s letters to describe intense personal care, such as his longing for the Philippian believers (Philippians 1:8) or his desire for Philemon’s renewed love (Philemon 7, 20). The term also describes divine mercy, notably in Luke’s account of God’s compassion shining through Christ (Luke 1:78), and John’s call to practical help for those in need (1 John 3:17).
Translators often render splagchnon as "heart" or "affections," though these English terms can feel abstract. The Greek word is visceral, grounding spiritual love in the deepest part of human experience. By using a term for internal organs, Scripture emphasizes that true compassion is not just an intellectual decision but a profound, embodied response to the suffering of others.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word splagchnon points to the deepest part of human feeling, using the image of entrails to describe where true compassion lives. In ancient thought, these were not just organs but the seat of intense emotion. When Scripture uses this term, it moves love beyond simple words or polite gestures into something visceral and real. It suggests that caring for others should feel as natural and necessary as breathing.
This understanding invites us to examine our own responses to those in need. Do we offer only superficial help, or do we let the needs of others touch our very core? The New Testament presents this deep affection as a mark of genuine faith, seen in God’s mercy toward us and our duty to share with neighbors who suffer. It is a call to embody love rather than just discuss it.
By grounding spiritual care in such physical language, the text reminds us that compassion requires effort and presence. It challenges us to let the struggles of others move us deeply, creating a bond that reflects the tender mercy we have received. This kind of love transforms relationships, turning distant observers into active participants in each other’s lives.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 11 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- affections3×
- hearts2×
- heart2×
- very heart —1×
- intestines1×
- [the] affections1×
- [the] affection1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- σπλάγχνα9×
- σπλάγχνοις2×
Key Verses
-
Luke 1:78
because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the dawn from on high will visit us,
This verse attributes divine compassion to God's nature, showing that mercy originates from His very being before it is extended to humanity.
-
Philippians 1:8
For God is my witness, how I long after all of you in the tender mercies of Christ Jesus.
Paul uses this term to describe his intense personal longing for the believers, framing his care as a witness witnessed by Christ Jesus.
-
I John 3:17
But whoever has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, then closes his heart of compassion against him, how does God’s love remain in him?
The author links the closure of one's inner compassion directly to the absence of God's love, making practical aid a test of spiritual reality.
-
Philemon 1:20
Yes, brother, let me have joy from you in the Lord. Refresh my heart in the Lord.
Paul asks Philemon to refresh his heart, using this word to emphasize the deep personal relief and joy he expects from their reconciliation.