Splagchnizomai

An ode to Compassion in Medical Practice

Abstract

^{Splagchnizomai (σπλαγχνίζομαι) is the Greek word for Compassion meaning stirring of the inward parts. Compassion is equivalent to the Christian concept of Agape (ἀγάπη unconditional love) and Maitri (मैत्री loving-kindness) of the Dharmic tradition. Three pillars central to the practice of medicine are care, competence and compassion. However, of those three, compassion is the most important, which when lost all else is of nought. This ode is based on the Homily on Love (Charity) found in 1 Corinthians 13.}