Agape

In Christianity, agape (ɑːˈgɑːpeɪ,_'ɑːgəˌpeɪ,_ˈægə-; ) is "the highest form of love, charity" and "the love of God for man and of man for God". This is in contrast to philia, brotherly love, or philautia, self-love, as it embraces a profound sacrificial love that transcends and persists regardless of circumstance. The verb form goes as far back as Homer, translated literally as affection, as in "greet with affection" and "show affection for the dead". 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 eros (an affection of a sexual nature). In the New Testament, agape refers to the covenant love of God for humans, as well as the human reciprocal love for God; the term necessarily extends to the love of one's fellow human beings. Some contemporary writers have sought to extend the use of agape into non-religious contexts. The concept of agape has been widely examined within its Christian context. It has also been considered in the contexts of other religions, religious ethics, and science. There are few instances of the word agape in polytheistic Greek literature. Bauer's Lexicon mentions a sepulchral inscription, most likely to honor a polytheistic army officer held in "high esteem" by his country. 1 Corinthians 13 The word agape received a broader usage under later Christian writers as the word that specifically denoted Christian love or charity (), or even God himself. The expression "God is love" (ὁ θεὸς ἀγάπη ἐστίν) occurs twice in the New Testament: 1 John . Agape was also used by the early Christians 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 (see kenosis). This understanding is built upon the foundational Hebrew concept of chesed, or the loving kindness of God, which is taught throughout the Old Testament. Agape has been expounded by many Christian writers in a specifically Christian context. C. S.