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Agape, Agape

The word has been used in different ways by a variety of contemporary and ancient sources, including Biblical authors. Many have thought that this word represents divine, unconditional, self-sacrificing, active, volitional, and thoughtful love. In his book, The Pilgrimage , internationally acclaimed author Paulo Coelho defines it as "the love that consumes," i.e., the highest and purest form of love, one that surpasses all other types of affection. Greek philosophers at the time of Plato and other ancient authors have used forms of the word to denote love of a spouse or family, or affection for a particular activity, in contrast to philiaan affection that could denote either brotherhood or generally non-sexual affection, and eros, an affection of a sexual nature. The term agape is rarely used in ancient manuscripts, but was used by the early Christian to refer to the self-sacrificing love of God for humanity, which they were committed to reciprocating and practicing towards God and among one another (also see kenosis). When says "God is love," the Greek New Testament uses the word agapao to describe God's love.

While this pairing was often sexual in nature, the term agape implied a genuine affection and deep love for the goddess.

Instead, two forms of the word agape may be found: agapton and agapazomenoi.

It is uncertain why agapao was chosen, but similarity of consonant sounds (aava) may have played a part. The Greek concept may have originated as a transliteration from some Semitic tongue. This usage provides the context for the choice of this otherwise obscure word, in preference to other more common Greek words, as the most frequently used word for love in Christian writings. The use of the noun agape in this way appears to be an innovation of the New Testament writers, but is clearly derived from the use of the verb agapao in the Septuagint.

John 3:16 in Pop Culture. Time.com Accessed: 22 May 2009 The word translated "love" in this verse is agape.

Source: Wikipedia > Agape