Love is a central theme in the Bible, embodying the essence of God’s nature and His intentions for human relationships. The Greek language, with its rich vocabulary, delineates four distinct types of love. Each type offers unique insights into divine affection and how it manifests in our lives.
These insights from Scripture illuminate the multifaceted nature of love and guide us in cultivating godly relationships.
In this article, we will take a look at the 4 translations of love in the Bible revealing 11 essential lessons on loving God, family, friends, and spouses.
4 Translations of love in the bible
The four translations of love in the Bible are agape, phileo, storge, and eros. Agape is selfless, unconditional love often associated with God’s love for humanity.
Phileo is brotherly love, the affectionate regard shared among friends and family. Storge is natural, familial love, the bond between parents and children. Eros is romantic, passionate love.
We will explain each of these in more detail below.
1. Agape: Unconditional Love
Agape is the highest form of love, often referred to as divine or unconditional love. It is selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional, embodying the nature of God Himself.
This type of love is not based on feelings or circumstances but is a deliberate choice to love regardless of the outcome.
Agape in the Bible
Agape love is most clearly demonstrated in God’s love for humanity. John 3:16 encapsulates this divine love:
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
This verse highlights the sacrificial nature of agape love, showcasing God’s willingness to give His only Son for the redemption of mankind. Similarly, Romans 5:8 illustrates this love:
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
Agape love is not limited to God’s love for humanity but is also a commandment for how we should love one another. In John 13:34-35, Jesus instructs His disciples:
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
Agape love is the foundation of Christian relationships, reflecting God’s love in our interactions with others. It calls for a love that is unwavering and steadfast, irrespective of the actions or responses of others.
Characteristics of Agape Love
- Selflessness: Agape love prioritizes the well-being and happiness of others above one’s desires and needs. It is the ultimate form of self-giving.
- Sacrifice: This love often requires personal sacrifice and is willing to endure suffering or loss for the sake of others.
- Unconditionality: Agape love is not dependent on the recipient’s actions, behavior, or worthiness. It is given freely and without conditions.
- Choice and Commitment: Unlike other forms of love that may be driven by emotions, agape is a deliberate choice and a commitment to love consistently.
- Reflective of God’s Nature: As believers, showing agape love is a way to reflect God’s nature and His love for humanity.
Agape Love in Practice
Living out agape love involves practical actions and attitudes that reflect its divine nature:
- Forgiveness: Extending grace and forgiveness even when it is difficult, as God forgives us.
- Serving Others: Putting others’ needs before our own and serving without expecting anything in return.
- Loving Enemies: Demonstrating love and kindness towards those who may oppose or hurt us.
- Charity and Compassion: Engaging in acts of charity, helping those in need, and showing compassion to those suffering.
2. Phileo: Brotherly Love
Phileo refers to affectionate, brotherly love. It is the kind of love shared between close friends and is characterized by mutual respect, companionship, and deep emotional connection.
Phileo in the Bible
Phileo love is evident in the bond between David and Jonathan. Their friendship is one of the most profound examples of brotherly love in the Bible. In 1 Samuel 18:1-3, their relationship is described:
“After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself. From that day Saul kept David with him and did not let him return home to his family. And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself.”
This deep, emotional connection exemplifies Phileo love. Another example is found in the relationship between Jesus and His disciples. In John 15:13-15, Jesus expresses His friendship with them:
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.”
Phileo love is essential for fostering strong, supportive, and enduring relationships within the Christian community.
3. Storge: Familial Love
Storge is the natural affection shared among family members. It is an instinctual love that provides a sense of security, belonging, and unconditional support. This type of love is crucial for the stability and unity of the family unit.
Storge in the Bible
Although the term “storage” itself is not explicitly used in the Bible, the concept of familial love is prevalent throughout the scriptures.
One poignant example is found in the relationship between Mary and Martha with their brother Lazarus. In John 11:5, it is written:
“Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus.”
This verse highlights the familial love and deep connection within this family, as well as Jesus’ affection for them. Another illustration of storge love is found in the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32). The father’s unconditional love and forgiveness towards his wayward son exemplify familial love:
“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.”
Storge love is foundational to the structure and function of the family, providing a nurturing environment where members can grow and thrive.
4. Eros: Romantic Love
Eros is the passionate, romantic love shared between a husband and wife. It is characterized by physical attraction, desire, and intimacy.
While this type of love can be powerful and beautiful, it must be expressed within the boundaries of marriage to align with biblical principles.
Eros in the Bible
The Song of Solomon, also known as the Song of Songs, is a celebration of romantic love and provides a vivid portrayal of eros love.
This poetic book describes the deep emotional and physical connection between a bride and her groom. In Song of Solomon 1:2, the bride exclaims:
“Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth— for your love is more delightful than wine.”
This verse highlights the passionate and intoxicating nature of romantic love. Another verse, Song of Solomon 8:6-7, beautifully captures the intensity and strength of eros love:
“Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame. Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away.”
The New Testament also addresses romantic love within the context of marriage. In Ephesians 5:25, Paul instructs husbands:
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”
This verse emphasizes the sacrificial and selfless nature of romantic love, mirroring Christ’s love for the church.
Conclusion
The four types of love in the Bible, agape, phileo, storge, and eros, each offer a unique perspective on the diverse ways love can manifest in our lives. Agape love calls us to selflessly love others, reflecting God’s divine nature.
Phileo love encourages deep, meaningful friendships that provide support and companionship. Storge love nurtures familial bonds, creating a foundation of security and unconditional support. Eros love celebrates the passionate, intimate connection between spouses, enriching the marital relationship.
Understanding these different types of love helps us appreciate the richness of human relationships and the depth of God’s love for us.
