In the Bible, “bowels” often refers to the innermost being or the seat of emotions and compassion, symbolizing deep feelings such as love and mercy (e.g., Philippians 1:8). The term is used metaphorically to express the depth of one’s emotional state, emphasizing the heart’s capacity for tenderness and empathy.
Scripture
29 And he lifted up his eyes and saw his brother Benjamin, his mother’s son, and said, “Is this your youngest brother, of whom you spoke to me? God be gracious to you, my son!”
30 Then Joseph hurried out, for his compassion grew warm for his brother, and he sought a place to weep. And he entered his chamber and wept there.
31 Then he washed his face and came out. And controlling himself he said, “Serve the food.”
Biblical Significance of Bowels
In biblical literature, the term “bowels” serves as a profound metaphor for the innermost emotional and spiritual life of a person. This terminology reflects a cultural understanding that associates the bowels with deep feelings, contrasting with modern interpretations that often focus solely on the heart. For instance, in Philippians 1:8, Paul expresses his longing for the Philippian believers “with the bowels of Jesus Christ,” thereby communicating a depth of affection and sincere compassion that transcends mere sentimentality. This usage resonates with the Hebrew notion of “heart” (lev), where the seat of emotions is not restricted to romantic or superficial feelings but encompasses a broader spectrum of human experience, including empathy, sorrow, and love.
Moreover, the connotation of “bowels” extends to the divine attributes of God, who is often portrayed as compassionate and merciful. In passages such as Lamentations 3:22-23, where God’s mercies are said to be “new every morning,” one can see that the divine compassion flows from the depths of His being. Furthermore, in the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:33), the Samaritan is described as being moved with compassion, which emphasizes his visceral reaction to the suffering of others. This link between the bowels and authentic, tender compassion underlines a call to embody such emotions in our interactions, urging believers to extend mercy and love rooted in the very depths of their being, just as God has shown toward humanity.
In addition to the expressions of deep compassion found in the New Testament, the concept of “bowels” is also prevalent in the Old Testament, often reflecting a sense of urgency and care that flows from one’s innermost being. For instance, the intense feelings of distress or love manifested in the characters of the Old Testament can be traced back to this metaphor. In the relationship between parents and children, expressions of sorrow, longing, and affection are frequently described using this imagery. A poignant example can be found in Jeremiah 31:20, where God describes His enduring love for Ephraim, expressing it in terms that reveal a depth of feeling that comes “from the bowels,” illustrating the profound connection that God has with His people as a parent to a child.
Additionally, the notion of bowels is associated with the depth of loyalty and steadfastness in relationships. In many cases, this term underscores the necessity of a genuine emotional commitment, urging individuals to engage with one another not just on a superficial level but from their innermost selves. The concept can be seen in the covenantal love between God and Israel, revealing that divine promises are firmly rooted in heartfelt compassion and fidelity. This metaphor is a call to cultivate relationships that reflect this depth of commitment, encouraging believers to approach each other with sincerity and profound emotional investment. Thus, the biblical discourse on “bowels” serves as both a reminder of God’s boundless love and a challenge for His followers to mirror this depth of feeling in their community life, nurturing connections that are rich in empathy and genuine care.
Symbol of Deep Emotions
In biblical literature, the term “bowels” often symbolizes deep emotional states, particularly compassion and love. This usage reflects the ancient understanding that the inner organs, especially the intestines, were the seat of feelings and affections. When individuals are described as having “bowels of mercy” or “bowels of compassion,” it indicates a profound, visceral empathy for others, suggesting that true compassion arises from the innermost being.
Representation of Inner Life
The concept of “bowels” also serves as a metaphor for the inner life of a person, encompassing thoughts, intentions, and spiritual condition. In this context, the bowels represent the core of one’s being, where moral and ethical decisions are made. This understanding emphasizes the importance of inner purity and integrity, as one’s true character is often revealed through the motivations and desires that dwell within.
Connection to Covenant Relationships
In the biblical narrative, “bowels” can signify the deep connections and bonds formed within covenant relationships, such as those between family members or between God and His people. This notion highlights the idea of loyalty, commitment, and the emotional ties that bind individuals together. The use of “bowels” in this context underscores the seriousness of these relationships, suggesting that they are rooted in a profound sense of responsibility and care for one another.
How to Cultivate Compassion for a Deeper Faith
Cultivating compassion is a beautiful way to deepen your faith and truly embody the teachings of Christ. Start by intentionally opening your heart to the struggles of others; this might mean volunteering your time, listening to a friend in need, or simply offering a kind word to a stranger. Remember, compassion is not just about feeling sorry for someone; it’s about actively engaging with their pain and seeking to alleviate it. Reflect on the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) and ask yourself how you can be a neighbor to those around you. As you practice compassion, you’ll find that it not only enriches the lives of others but also strengthens your own relationship with God, as you begin to see His love reflected in your actions. Embrace this journey with an open heart, and watch how your faith blossoms in ways you never imagined.
Bible References to the Meaning of Bowels:
1 Kings 3:26-28: 26 Then the woman whose son was alive said to the king, because her heart yearned for her son, “Oh, my lord, give her the living child, and by no means put him to death.” But the other said, “He shall be neither mine nor yours; divide him.”
27 Then the king answered and said, “Give the living child to the first woman, and by no means put him to death; she is his mother.”
28 And all Israel heard of the judgment that the king had rendered, and they stood in awe of the king, because they perceived that the wisdom of God was in him to do justice.
Song of Solomon 5:4-6: 4 My beloved put his hand to the latch, and my heart was thrilled within me.
5 I rose to open to my beloved, and my hands dripped with myrrh, my fingers with liquid myrrh, on the handles of the bolt.
6 I opened to my beloved, but my beloved had turned and gone; my soul failed me when he spoke. I sought him, but found him not; I called him, but he gave no answer.
Isaiah 16:11-13: 11 Therefore my inner parts moan like a lyre for Moab, and my inmost self for Kir-hareseth.
12 And when Moab presents himself, when he wearies himself on the high place, when he comes to his sanctuary to pray, he will not prevail.
13 This is the word that the Lord spoke concerning Moab in the past.
Jeremiah 4:19-21: 19 My anguish, my anguish! I writhe in pain! Oh the walls of my heart! My heart is beating wildly; I cannot keep silent, for I hear the sound of the trumpet, the alarm of war.
20 “Disaster follows disaster; the whole land is laid waste. Suddenly my tents are laid waste, my curtains in a moment.”
21 How long must I see the standard and hear the sound of the trumpet?
Lamentations 1:20-22: 20 “Look, O Lord, for I am in distress; my stomach churns; my heart is wrung within me, because I have been very rebellious. In the street the sword bereaves; in the house it is like death.”
21 They heard my groaning, yet there is no one to comfort me. All my enemies have heard of my trouble; they are glad that you have done it. You will bring the day you have announced, and they will be like me.
22 Let all their evildoing come before you, and deal with them as you have dealt with me because of all my transgressions; for my groans are many, and my heart is faint.
Philippians 1:8-11: 8 For God is my witness, how I yearn for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus.
9 And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment,
10 so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ,
11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.
Colossians 3:12-14: 12 Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience,
13 bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.
14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.
Philemon 1:7-9: 7 For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you.
8 Accordingly, though I am bold enough in Christ to command you to do what is required,
9 yet for love’s sake I prefer to appeal to you—I, Paul, an old man and now a prisoner also for Christ Jesus—
1 John 3:17-19: 17 But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?
18 Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.
19 By this we shall know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him;
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.