What Is the Biblical Definition of Love?

The concept of love is multifaceted and deeply personal. We use the word “love” to describe a wide range of feelings, from the affection we have for our favorite foods to the profound connection we share with family. But when we seek to understand love in its truest and most meaningful sense, especially from a spiritual perspective, we must ask: What Is The Biblical Definition Of Love? The Bible, rooted in divine wisdom, offers profound insights into the nature and origin of love, guiding us towards a deeper understanding that transcends fleeting emotions and societal norms.

The English language, while rich, often falls short in capturing the nuances of love. We use a single word, “love,” to cover everything from romantic attraction to familial bonds and even casual preferences. However, the original languages of the Bible, Hebrew and Greek, provide a more refined vocabulary, distinguishing between different forms of love. This distinction is crucial for grasping the biblical definition of love. While English conflates various affections under one term, the Bible illuminates different facets of love through specific words, allowing us to appreciate the richness and depth of this vital concept.

In exploring the biblical understanding of love, it’s important to recognize these distinctions. The Bible doesn’t shy away from acknowledging various forms of love, but it elevates one in particular as the epitome of divine and human connection. Let’s examine these different types of love as presented in the scriptures:

Firstly, there’s the concept related to sexual or passionate love. While the original article mentions eros, it’s crucial to note that the Greek word eros itself isn’t directly found in the New Testament scriptures. However, the idea of sexual intimacy within the bounds of marriage is certainly present and valued in the Bible. The Hebrew word yada, meaning “to know,” is used in contexts like Genesis 4:1, “Adam knew Eve his wife, and she conceived,” often implying a deep, intimate knowing, including sexually. While not the central focus of the biblical definition of love, this aspect is acknowledged as a part of human experience.

Secondly, we encounter brotherly love, or friendship. This is described by the Greek word phileo. Phileo speaks to the affection and fondness between friends, a deep sense of camaraderie and loyalty. The bond between David and Jonathan in the Old Testament (1 Samuel 20:17) exemplifies this, described using the Hebrew word ahabah, which can encompass various forms of deep affection. In the New Testament, phileo is used to describe the love among believers and the affection Jesus had for his friends (John 11:36). This type of love is characterized by mutual respect, care, and companionship.

Thirdly, there’s familial love, often referred to as storge in Greek. Storge represents the natural affection that exists within families, the love between parents and children, siblings, and extended family. While the Greek word storge itself appears infrequently in the New Testament, its essence is evident throughout scripture. The Hebrew ahabah again captures this familial affection. However, it’s important to note that the Bible also warns against the absence of natural affection (astorgos), as seen in 2 Timothy 3:3, highlighting the importance of healthy familial bonds.

Finally, and most importantly for the biblical definition of love, we arrive at agape in Greek and chesed in Hebrew. These words represent the highest form of love, the love that God embodies and exemplifies. Chesed is often translated as “steadfast love,” “lovingkindness,” or “covenant love.” It’s a love that is loyal, persistent, and unwavering, even when undeserved. Numbers 14:18 beautifully illustrates chesed: “The Lord is slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, forgiving iniquity and transgression.” God’s chesed love is the foundation of His relationship with His people, a love that perseveres despite their failings.

Similarly, agape love in the New Testament embodies God’s selfless and unconditional love. It is not based on feelings or merit but is a deliberate act of will, choosing to love even when it’s difficult or when the recipient is undeserving. Agape is benevolence and goodwill in action, demonstrated through self-sacrifice and unwavering commitment. This is the love God showed to humanity by sending His Son, Jesus Christ (John 3:16). 1 John 4:8 definitively states, “God is love,” specifically using agape, equating God’s very nature with this selfless, sacrificial love.

Agape love is not merely an emotion; it is a principle, a way of being. It is the love that Jesus commanded his followers to have for one another (John 13:34-35), mirroring the love God has for us. This love is not limited to those who are easy to love; it extends to enemies and those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44). Agape love seeks the best for others, regardless of personal cost or reciprocation.

In essence, the biblical definition of love centers on agape/chesed love. It is a love that originates in God, flows from His very being, and is characterized by selflessness, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment. While other forms of love like phileo and storge are valuable and have their place, agape love is presented as the ultimate standard and the hallmark of Christian living.

Humans, created in God’s image, are uniquely capable of agape love. While animals may exhibit forms of affection and care, they do not possess the capacity for this higher, divinely inspired love. Our ability to love in this way reflects our spiritual nature and our connection to the God who is love.

Ultimately, understanding the biblical definition of love leads us back to God’s own demonstration of love for us: “This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. . . . We love because he first loved us” (1 John 4:9–11, 19). This passage encapsulates the essence of biblical love: it is initiated by God, demonstrated through Christ’s sacrifice, and is the foundation for how we are called to love others.

The biblical definition of love is not a sentimental feeling but a profound, active, and sacrificial commitment rooted in the very nature of God. It calls us to move beyond self-centeredness and embrace a love that reflects the divine agape, transforming our relationships and our world.