The three faces of love
Submitted by JohnQ on August 19 2001 11:22:06
In reply to 'sex is bad!' submitted by Nate on August 18 2001 23:52:48
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I know a little about Greek, since it's important in my work. There are three Greek words translated "love": eros (whence we get the word erotic, et al) and in the Scriptures usually refers to pure out and out sex. However,in some non-Biblical sources before, during, and after the New Testament was written, it sometimes has the meaning of "driving force". What is sought in eros is intoxication or ecstacy. This is not how the writers of the New Testament use it. Then there is "philios." Hence the words "Philadelphia" philosophy and philanhropia "a love for mankind" which occurs in Scripture, bibliophile, Anglophile, etc. It is a nonsexual, generalized love as in philanthropy. Then there's "agape" which is the word used to describe God's love and the ideal Christian love. It is a love that gives, not desires for itself. I could rant on like this for hours, but I think this should be enough for a start |
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