THE BROKEN HEART IN THE BIBLE
Throughout the Bible, the broken heart symbolizes deep pain, sorrow, and suffering. Whether from personal loss, betrayal, or or sin. The Bible speaks to the reality of human heartbreak. Yet, amid the pain, there is a profound message of hope. Scripture is filled with examples of how God understands our heartache and offers comfort, healing, and restoration. From the Psalms to the teachings of Jesus, the Bible shows that God is near to the brokenhearted, and through His love, we can find strength and renewal.
However, the Bible offers a powerful message of hope, assuring us that God is close to the brokenhearted and that He desires to heal and restore those who are crushed in spirit. Through His love, compassion, and grace, God promises not only to comfort but to bring lasting healing to the wounded heart.
Etymology
Hebrew:
In Hebrew, the term for a “broken heart” can be derived from words related to “brokenness” and “heart”
Heart(lev , לֵב):
The Hebrew word for “heart” is lev, which signifies the seat of emotions, thoughts, desires, and will.
Broken: ( שָׁבוּר shavar):
The Hebrew verb shavar means “to break, ” “to shatter, “or “to crush.” It is often used metaphorically to describe emotional distress or spiritual brokenness. So, a “broken heart” in Hebrew could be expressed as a broken or crushed heart (lev nishbar, לב מרוסק)(, signifying emotional pain, deep grief, or spiritual distress.
Greek:
In Greek, particularly in the context of the New Testament, a “broken heart” might be understood through similar ideas of brokenness andemotional turmoil.
Heart (καρδία, kardia):
The Greek word kardia refers to the heart, both as the physical organandas the center of one’s emotions and will.
Broken (συντετριμμένος, suntetrimmenos):
The word suntetrimmenos comes from the verb suntrepho, meaning”to crush” or “to break into pieces.” This is used in some biblical texts to describe a broken or contrite spirit, often in a spiritual context.
In the Greek Old Testament (Septuagint), Psalm 51:17 speaks of a “broken spirit” (πνεῦμα συντετριμμένον, pneuma syntetrimmenon), which is akin to a broken heart, referring to deeprepentance or sorrow.
“The Lord is close to the broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” ( Psalm 34: 18 )
This verse emphasizes God’s nearness to those who are emotionally or spiritually broken. He is not distant or aloof but actively engages with those who are in sorrow or despair, offering salvation, comfort, and healing
The Meaning of a Broken heart in the Bible
The broken heart in biblical terms generally refers to an emotional or spiritual state of deep sorrow, loss, or suffering. It often carries with it a sense of helplessness, despair, or even guilt. The heart in the Bible represents the center of a person’s emotions, thoughts, and will. Therefore, a broken heart indicates a deep emotional and spiritual wound, often brought on by grief, loss, sin, or shame.
‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” ( Revelation 21: 4 )
“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.” ( Isaiah 61: 1 )
Theological Implications of a Broken Heart:
1. A sign of humility:
When a person is brokenhearted, it often signifies an awareness of their own weakness, sinfulness, or helplessness before God. It is a condition that calls for humility, which is a necessary posture for spiritual growth and healing.
The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God. ( Psalm 51: 17 )
2. A result of sin or suffering:
Sometimes, a broken heart results from the pain caused by sin—either personal sin or the sin of others. It can also come from life’s natural trials, such as loss, betrayal, or injustice.
The thought of my suffering and homelessness is bitter beyond words. 20 I will never forget this awful time, as I grieve over my loss. ( Lamentations 3: 19- 20 )
This passage from the prophet Jeremiah reflects the pain of suffering, both physical and emotional. The lament is a result of the trials and injustices the people of Israel were facing, particularly their exile. The brokenness of heart here is tied to the weight of suffering.
For we know that all creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.
( Romans 8: 22 )
This verse shows that suffering is a part of the human condition. The “groaning” of creation represents the pain caused by sin entering the world and the resulting suffering. This collective brokenness of humanity is linked to the fallen state of the world due to sin.
3 God’s presence in suffering:
The brokenhearted are not abandoned by God. On the contrary, God promises to be near to those who are in this state, offering them His comfort and salvation.
Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. ( Isaiah 41: 10 )
God assures His people of His constant presence and support in times of trouble. This promise extends to those whose hearts are broken by suffering, grief, or hardship. God’s presence brings comfort
Divine healing for the broken hearted
The Bible assures us that God does not leave the brokenhearted in their pain and sorrow. Instead, He meets them with His healing power, offering both comfort and restoration. The healing that God provides for the brokenhearted is comprehensive—touching not just the emotional or spiritual wounds but also offering peace that transcends understanding
God’s care for those who are emotionally and spiritually shattered. The act of “binding up their wounds” suggests a tender, compassionate healing process where God not only acknowledges the pain but actively works to restore and mend it.
He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds. ( Psalm 147: 3 )
The phrase emphasizes God’s personal attention to each individual’s wounds, carefully healing them in a way that brings true restoration. The healing God offers is not a quick fix, but a thoughtful and gentle process, where He heals emotional and spiritual wounds. Those who are brokenhearted are not abandoned but are tenderlyrestored by God’s loving hands.
Jesus offers an invitation to those who are emotionally or spiritually weary. The “rest” is not simply physical relief, but a deep, soul-level peace that only He can provide. Jesus acknowledges the weight of sorrow and burdens, and He promises to give rest to the brokenhearted, offering them comfort that surpasses what the world can offer.
Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” ( Matthew 11: 28- 30 )
Jesus’ invitation is not just a call for physical rest but an invitation for emotional and spiritual healing. The brokenhearted, weary from the weight of their pain, can find true comfort in Him. He promises to carry our burdens and grant us peace.
The process of God’s healing for the broken hearted
Emotional Healing:
God understands the depths of emotional pain that come with a broken heart. His healing involves validating that pain and gently restoring the individual to wholeness.
Spiritual Healing:
Often, a broken heart leads to a deeper awareness of spiritual vulnerability and need. In these moments, God draws near, offering forgiveness, peace, and a renewed relationship with Him.
Physical Healing:
While this verse primarily speaks to emotional and spiritual healing, God’s care for His people often extends to physical healing as well. In many cases, deep emotional pain can manifest physically, and God’s healing extends to every part of our being—body, soul, and spirit.
1. Healing Through His Word
God’s Word is a source of healing for the broken hearted. Scriptures that speak of His love, faithfulness, and promises can bring comfort and hope to those in pain. Meditating on these truths allows the broken heart to be restored and renewed.
No, I will not abandon you as orphans—I will come to you. ( John 14: 18 )
Jesus’ promise to His disciples was that He would not abandon them in their time of need. Even when He was about to leave them physically, He assured them that His presence would remain with them through the Holy Spirit, comforting them in their sorrow.
2. God’s Sovereignty Over All Circumstances
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. ( Romans 8: 28 )
There is no situation that is outside of God’s control. Whether it’s suffering, loss, sin, or trials, God is working in every situation. Even when we feel brokenhearted, God is not absent—He is actively involved, working for a higher purpose.
3 God’s Good Purpose for Those Who Love Him
The “good” mentioned here doesn’t always refer to immediate pleasure or comfort but to the ultimate good that aligns with God’s will. This “good” may involve spiritual growth, deepened faith, a closer relationship with God, or preparation for the future, even though it might not be immediately evident in times of pain.
For those experiencing a broken heart, this verse speaks to the promise that God is at work, even in the midst of sorrow. The trials and heartaches are not without purpose.
Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3 For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. ( James 1: 2 -4 )
This passage emphasizes that trials, though painful, have a refining purpose in our lives. They help produce spiritual maturity and steadfastness, which ultimately contribute to our growth in Christ. God is shaping you, teaching you, and drawing you closer to Himself through the pain, which leads to long-term good, even if that good is not immediately apparent.
4 Called According to His Purpose
God has a purpose for each person’s life. The brokenhearted are reminded that their suffering is not in vain; it is part of God’s greater plan for them. Even in pain, God is fulfilling His divine purpose, which may involve refining character, developing patience, or preparing them for future ministry.
For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. ( Jeremiah 29: 11 )
5 Assurance of God’s Faithfulness
God is always working on behalf of His children, even when we don’t understand the reasons behind our suffering. For the brokenhearted, this truth brings comfort, knowing that God will ultimately turn the situation around for their good, either in this life or in eternity.
“My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the LORD. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. 9 For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts. ( Isaiah 55: 8 -9 )
This passage acknowledges that God’s plan may not always align with our understanding, but we can trust that His plan is always higher and for our ultimate good.
Furthermore, because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for he chose us in advance, and he makes everything work out according to his plan. ( Ephesians 1: 11 )
This verse reminds us that God’s plan is at work in everything, and it is a plan for good, in alignment with His will and purpose for our lives.
Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
( Romans 12: 2 )
God’s will is described here as good, pleasing, and perfect, signifying that His plan for us is ultimately for our good, leading us to transformation.
Application for a Broken Heart:
Habakkuk’s words illustrates that God is his ultimate source of stability. Even though the outward circumstances appear bleak, the prophet recognizes that God is his strength and that God will enable him to endure, even to rise above his trials (“He makes my feet like the deer’s, making me tread on high places”).
When we experience a broken heart, whether from grief, fear, loss, or disappointment, this passage serves as a reminder that joy in the Lord is a powerful antidote to our emotional pain. The prophet shows that despite the worst circumstances, joy in God’s salvation and trust in His strength can lift us from despair.
I trembled inside when I heard this; my lips quivered with fear. My legs gave way beneath me, and I shook in terror. I will wait quietly for the coming day when disaster will strike the people who invade us. 17 Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vines; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, 18 yet I will rejoice in the LORD! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation! 19 The Sovereign LORD is my strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon the heights. ( Habakkuk 3: 16- 19 )
Acknowledging brokenness:
Like Habakkuk, we can acknowledge our pain—both physical and emotional.
Choosing joy:
Even in brokenness, we can choose to rejoice in the Lord, knowing that He is the source of our strength.
Trusting God’s plan:
Our brokenness becomes an opportunity to rest in God’s faithfulness and strength, even if the world around us seems to fall apart.
Ultimately, the power of faith in God’s unshakable presence and strength brings healing to a broken heart. Even in times of deep emotional pain and despair, trusting in God’s faithfulness and love provides the strength to endure and rise above. Just as Habakkuk chose to rejoice in the Lord despite his circumstances, we too can find comfort and hope in God’s ability to restore and uplift us, transforming our brokenness into a source of spiritual strength and peace.