Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels:

PHILEMON 1:12KJV
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Philemon 1:12 (KJV)

What does Philemon 1:12 mean?

Philemon 1:12 means that Paul is sending Onesimus back to Philemon and is asking Philemon to welcome him, describing Onesimus as someone very dear to Paul—almost like sending his own heart. Paul’s words show how much he cares for Onesimus and how personal this request is.

Paul is writing to Philemon, a Christian in Colossae, about Onesimus, a runaway slave who has become a believer while with Paul. By calling Onesimus “mine own bowels,” Paul uses a strong expression of affection, showing that Onesimus is not just a servant but someone Paul deeply loves and values. Paul’s request is not just about returning property, but about restoring a relationship with warmth and respect.

The Greek behind Philemon 1:12

  • "receive" (προσλαβοῦ, proslabou): This Greek word means to take to oneself or welcome. Paul is not just asking Philemon to accept Onesimus back, but to do so with open arms and a welcoming spirit.
  • "bowels" (σπλάγχνα, splanchna): In Greek, this word refers to the inner parts, often used to express deep feelings or affection. Paul is saying Onesimus is as dear to him as his own heart, emphasizing the depth of his attachment.

Why Philemon 1:12 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Paul’s appeal is deeply personal, not just a formal request about a servant, but a heartfelt plea involving someone he loves.
  • Paul’s language sets the tone for the rest of the letter, showing that he wants Philemon to see Onesimus not as a mere slave, but as someone worthy of compassion and acceptance.
  • The verse highlights the Christian idea of relationships being transformed by love and mutual respect, which is a key theme in Paul’s letter to Philemon.

Where else these words appear

“again” Greek G375 · used in 4 verses

  • Luke 23:7 And as soon as he knew that he belonged unto Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who himself also was at Jerusalem at that time.
  • Luke 23:11 And Herod with his men of war set him at nought, and mocked him, and arrayed him in a gorgeous robe, and sent him again to Pilate.
  • Luke 23:15 No, nor yet Herod: for I sent you to him; and, lo, nothing worthy of death is done unto him.

“bowels” Greek G4698 · used in 11 verses

  • Luke 1:78 Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us,
  • 2 Corinthians 7:15 And his inward affection is more abundant toward you, whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him.
  • Colossians 3:12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

“receive” Greek G4355 · used in 13 verses

  • Matthew 16:22 Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee.
  • Acts 27:33 And while the day was coming on, Paul besought them all to take meat, saying, This day is the fourteenth day that ye have tarried and continued fasting, having taken nothing.
  • Romans 14:1 Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations.

“is” Greek G5123 · used in 17 verses

  • Matthew 27:46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?
  • Romans 9:8 That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed.
  • Hebrews 7:5 And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of Abraham: