2 Corinthians 6:12 (KJV) says, "Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels." This verse comes from the New Testament, specifically from the letters of Paul to the Corinthians. In this verse, Paul is addressing the Corinthians and expressing his concern for them.

The phrase "Ye are not straitened in us" refers to the fact that Paul and his fellow apostles are not restricting the Corinthians in any way. They have not placed any limitations or constraints on the Corinthians. This may be interpreted as Paul reassuring the Corinthians that they are not hindering or constraining the Corinthians in their spiritual journey. He wants them to understand that the limitations they are feeling are not coming from him or the other apostles.

On the other hand, the phrase "but ye are straitened in your own bowels" indicates that the Corinthians themselves are the ones who are feeling restricted or constrained. The term "bowels" here refers to the innermost part of a person, their emotions, and feelings. Paul is suggesting that the Corinthians are feeling limited or constricted within themselves, possibly in their faith, their love, or their commitment to the Lord.

In this verse, Paul is addressing an important theme that is prevalent throughout his letters: the struggle between the desires of the flesh and the calling of the spirit. The Corinthians are struggling with their own inner limitations, feeling restricted by their own doubts, fears, and worldly desires. They are finding it difficult to fully embrace the freedom and grace that comes with a life in Christ.

The context of this verse is within a larger passage where Paul is exhorting the Corinthians to live as servants of God and to pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace. He is urging them to separate themselves from the ways of the world and to live in a manner that is pleasing to God. This verse is a reminder to the Corinthians that their spiritual growth and freedom in Christ are not limited by the apostles, but rather by their own internal struggles and limitations.

The symbolism in this verse lies in the contrast between being "straitened in us" versus "straitened in your own bowels." It highlights the internal struggles and limitations that the Corinthians are facing, and it serves as a reminder that true freedom in Christ comes from within, not from external circumstances or influences.

Overall, 2 Corinthians 6:12 is a poignant reminder from Paul to the Corinthians that their spiritual growth and freedom in Christ are not hindered by external forces, but rather by their own internal struggles and limitations. It encourages them to look within themselves and confront their own limitations in order to fully embrace the freedom and grace that comes with a life in Christ.