σπλαγχνίζομαι (splanchnízomai)

from σπλάγχνον (splanchnon) (n.) “the chief intestines, the entrails, bowels” - as in Acts 1.18 (English: Acts 1.18 NASB95)

  • metaphorically the heart, the affections of the heart, the tender affections
  • having a “gut feeling” about something

We say “my heart goes out to you.” The Greeks would say “my intestines go out to you.”

σπλαγχνίζομαι is not simply feeling sorry for someone. It is a profound and visceral empathy; being deeply moved with compassion. As when:

  • Jesus sees the widow of Nain in the funeral procession of her only son. (Luke 7.13 NASB95)
  • The Good Samaritan sees the injured man lying by the roadside. (Luke 10.33 NASB95)
  • The father see his returning prodigal son in the distance. (Luke 15.20 NASB95)

Examples: Luke 7:13; 10:33; 15:20


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