Brief Overview of ἀγαπάω (Strong’s G25: Agapao)

ἀγαπάω (Agapao):
The Greek word “ἀγαπάω” (agapao) translates to “to love” or “to have affection for.” It denotes a deep, selfless, and unconditional love. This term is often used to describe the kind of love that is not merely based on feelings but also involves actions and commitments. In the New Testament, “ἀγαπάω” is frequently associated with God’s love for humanity and the love that believers are called to have for one another.

Detailed Overview Incorporating Other Concordances

ἀγαπάω (Agapao):

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• Meaning: According to Strong’s Concordance (G25), “ἀγαπάω” means “to love” or “to have affection for.” Strong’s notes that this term denotes a kind of love that is characterized by selflessness and commitment, often in the context of divine or ideal love. It is used in the New Testament to express the love of God and the expected love among believers (e.g., John 3:16; 1 John 4:7).

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Meaning: Thayer’s Lexicon defines “ἀγαπάω” as “to love” in a deep, selfless manner. Thayer’s elaborates that this love involves a deliberate choice to care for and seek the well-being of others, reflecting the divine love that God has for humanity. It is contrasted with other types of love such as “φιλέω” (phileo), which is more about friendship or affection (e.g., John 13:34; 1 John 4:8).

1. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words:

• Meaning: Vine’s Dictionary describes “ἀγαπάω” as “to love” with a focus on selfless, sacrificial love. Vine’s emphasizes that this term is used to describe the kind of love that is unconditional and involves action rather than just feeling. It is the love that God shows to humanity and the love believers are to exhibit towards one another (e.g., 1 John 3:16).

1. Louw-Nida Greek-English Lexicon:

• Meaning: The Louw-Nida Lexicon classifies “ἀγαπάω” under terms related to love and affection. It defines the word as “to love” with a sense of deep, unconditional commitment. The lexicon notes that this love is characterized by a deliberate decision to act in the best interests of others, reflecting a profound, moral quality of love (e.g., Matthew 5:44; John 14:21).

1. Moulton-Milligan Vocabulary of the Greek New Testament:

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• Meaning: Moulton-Milligan discusses “ἀγαπάω” as meaning “to love” in a comprehensive, selfless manner. The vocabulary highlights its use in expressing a deep, sacrificial love that goes beyond mere emotional affection. It is frequently used in the New Testament to describe the love of God and the ethical love believers are called to demonstrate (e.g., John 15:13).

Summary:
“ἀγαπάω” (agapao) translates to “to love” and describes a profound, selfless, and unconditional form of love. Various concordances, including Strong’s, Thayer’s, Vine’s, Louw-Nida, and Moulton-Milligan, emphasize its use in the New Testament to reflect divine love and the love expected among believers. This term captures a love that involves both emotional commitment and practical actions aimed at the well-being of others, distinguishing it from other forms of love based on affection or friendship.