Introduction

Understanding Greek words in biblical studies is essential for deepening our knowledge of scripture. The Greek word εὔσπλαγχνος (eusplanchnos, Strong’s G2155) is particularly significant as it conveys the concept of deep compassion or tender-heartedness. Its use in the New Testament offers insights into how early Christians were encouraged to show empathy and love, reflecting God’s nature. Additionally, its roots in ancient Greek culture help us understand the broader context in which it was employed.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: εὔσπλαγχνος (eusplanchnos) [yoo-SPLAHNK-nos]
• Etymology: Derived from εὖ (eu, meaning “well” or “good”) and σπλάγχνον (splanchnon, meaning “inward parts” or “viscera”), metaphorically referring to deep emotions or affections.
• Part of Speech: Adjective. First and second declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Compassionate, tender-hearted: Refers to a deep sense of empathy or kindness, particularly toward others in distress.
• Affectionate: Implies a warm, loving, and tender-hearted demeanor, characterized by genuine concern and care.

Similar Words: οἰκτίρμων (oiktirmōn) [oyk-TEER-mon] also means “compassionate” or “merciful,” but it often emphasizes mercy as an action rather than a characteristic. In contrast, εὔσπλαγχνος (eusplanchnos) focuses on the innate, heartfelt nature of compassion and empathy.

Further Insights: The adjective εὔσπλαγχνος is part of the first and second declension in Greek, aligning with nouns in gender, number, and case. Below is the full declension table for εὔσπλαγχνος:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: εὔσπλαγχνος is defined as “compassionate, tender-hearted,” emphasizing a deep emotional response to others’ needs. BDAG highlights the term’s use in contexts where empathy and kindness are paramount virtues.
• Thayer’s: Describes εὔσπλαγχνος as “tender-hearted, compassionate,” relating it to an inner feeling of affection and empathy that moves a person to act kindly toward others. Thayer’s notes the importance of this characteristic within early Christian communities.
• Vine’s: This lexicon notes that εὔσπλαγχνος means “tender-hearted,” focusing on the natural, emotional response of compassion that springs from a heart attuned to others’ suffering. Vine’s underscores the Christian ethical emphasis on compassion.
• LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon explains that εὔσπλαγχνος was used in classical literature to mean “kind-hearted” or “affectionate,” often highlighting personal qualities that were admired in leaders and citizens alike for their empathy and genuine concern.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Provides a concise definition of εὔσπλαγχνος as “compassionate,” reinforcing the idea of inner affection that leads to outward kindness or mercy.

Related Scripture References

• 1 Peter 3:8 – “Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate [εὔσπλαγχνοι] and humble.”
• Ephesians 4:32 – “Be kind and compassionate [εὔσπλαγχνοι] to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Classical Usage

Summary of εὔσπλαγχνος (G2155: eusplanchnos)

The Greek word εὔσπλαγχνος (eusplanchnos, Strong’s G2155) is an adjective that denotes a deep sense of compassion, kindness, and empathy. Used to describe a person’s inner emotional life, particularly in relation to how they care for others, it underscores the importance of compassion in both early Christian ethics and broader ancient Greek cultural values. The word’s presence in the New Testament reminds readers of the need to exhibit Christ-like empathy and tender-heartedness in everyday life. Its usage in classical literature further reflects the esteem placed on compassion as a virtuous quality, both in personal and social contexts.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the word εὔσπλαγχνος also ties into the ancient belief that emotions originated from the “inward parts” or “bowels”? Greeks often saw deep feelings like compassion as coming from within, linking physiological responses to emotions, thereby giving depth to the metaphorical use of the term to describe heartfelt empathy and care.