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ἀγάπη
[ah-GAH-pay]
This study uses the U.N.D.E.R.S.T.A.N.D Exegesis Framework to offer a thorough exploration of the nuanced meanings and contexts of this ancient word.
01
Unveiling the Word
Understanding Greek words is essential in Biblical studies because the meanings and nuances of these words can deeply affect how we interpret Scripture. The Greek word ἀγάπη (agapē) is particularly significant due to its profound implications in both New Testament theology and its influence on understanding ancient Greek culture. Commonly translated as “love,” ἀγάπη represents a selfless, sacrificial love that is central to Christian teaching.
02
Necessary Information
The Greek Word: ἀγάπη (agapē) [ah-GAH-pay]
Etymology: Derived from ἀγαπάω (agapaō), meaning “to love.”
Part of Speech: Noun; first declension, feminine.
The F.O.G Word Choice: Love, true love, sacrificial love.
03
Defining Meanings
Selfless Love: The highest form of love that is self-sacrificing and unconditional.
Divine Love: Often used to describe God’s love for humanity.
Brotherly Love: Love extended to others without expecting anything in return.
04
Exploring Similar Words
φιλεω (phileō) [fee-LEH-oh]: Denotes a type of friendship or affectionate love, often more emotional and personal.
στοργή (storgē) [stor-GAY]: Refers to familial love, such as the love between parents and children.
ἔρως (eros) [EH-rohs]: Represents passionate, romantic love, often with a physical or sensual connotation.
05
Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
For Nouns: Case, Number, Gender:
Cases: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative, Vocative.
Number: Singular and Plural.
Gender: Feminine.
Declension: First declension (feminine). Below is the declension table for ἀγάπη (agapē):
| Case | Singular | Plural |
|---|---|---|
| Nominative | ἀγάπη | ἀγαπαί |
| Genitive | ἀγάπης | ἀγαπῶν |
| Dative | ἀγάπῃ | ἀγάπαις |
| Accusative | ἀγάπην | ἀγάπας |
| Vocative | ἀγάπη | ἀγαπαί |
Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.
06
Studying Lexicon Insights
The Greek word ἀγάπη (agapē) is distinctively used in the New Testament to describe a selfless, sacrificial love that reflects God’s love for humanity and the love Christians are called to embody. Unlike other Greek words for love, such as φιλέω (phileō) or ἔρως (eros), ἀγάπη is characterized by a commitment to the well-being of others, transcending emotional or romantic affection. This love is the central theme of key New Testament passages, such as 1 Corinthians 13, where it is described as patient, kind, and enduring. Classical Greek texts occasionally use ἀγάπη, but its Christian usage elevated it to denote divine love. The Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, also employs ἀγάπη to represent covenantal love, further emphasizing its depth and theological significance.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
07
John 3:16: “For God so loved [ἀγάπησεν] the world, that he gave his only begotten Son…”
1 Corinthians 13:4-7: “Love [ἀγάπη] is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud…”
1 John 4:8: “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love [ἀγάπη].”
08
Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text with Greek Word |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | “Symposium” | “True love [ἀγάπη] is divine…” |
| Aristotle | “Nicomachean Ethics” | “Friendship can be seen as a type of love [ἀγάπη].” |
| Herodotus | “Histories” | “The love [ἀγάπη] of country…” |
| Septuagint | “Proverbs 10:12” | “Hatred stirs up conflict, but love [ἀγάπη] covers all wrongs.” |
| Septuagint | “Genesis 22:2” | “Take your son, whom you love [ἀγαπᾶς]…” |
| Septuagint | “Deuteronomy 6:5” | “Love [ἀγαπᾶς] the Lord your God…” |
09
Noteworthy Summary
The Greek word ἀγάπη (agapē) is central to both New Testament theology and Christian practice. It describes a selfless, sacrificial love that mirrors God’s unconditional love for humanity. This term, deeply rooted in Christian teachings, contrasts with other Greek words for love and is used extensively in both the New Testament and the Septuagint. Understanding ἀγάπη (agapē) enhances our comprehension of the depth and nature of divine love as it is presented in biblical texts.
10
Did You Know?
ἀγάπη is one of four main Greek words for love, each with a different nuance.
The early Christian community redefined ἀγάπη to focus on God’s unconditional love.
The word ἀγάπη became so integral to Christian theology that it is often used to describe the unique quality of divine love.
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