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''Agapē'' ( or ) ( Gk. αγάπη {Link without Title} ), is one of several Greek Words Translated Into English As Love . 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 . 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 '' Philia ''—an affection that could denote either brotherhood or generally non-sexual affection, and '' Eros '', an affection of a sexual nature, usually between two unequal partners. The term ''agape'' is rarely used in ancient manuscripts, but was used by the early Christian s 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. ''Agape'' has been expounded on by many Christian writers in a specifically Christian context. Thomas Jay Oord has defined ''agape'' as "an intentional response to promote well-being when responding to that which has generated ill-being." ANCIENT USAGE ''Agape'' as a term for love or affection is rarely used in ancient manuscripts. According to Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (Love definition) the word is believed to have been coined by the Bible authors from the verb agapao. A title of the goddess Isis was agape theon, or "beloved/darling of the gods," denoting her role as a fertility goddess and her pairing as a partner with multiple gods. While this pairing was often sexual in nature, the term "agape" implied a genuine affection and love for the goddess. Although some sources claim Agape appears in the Odyssey twice, the word is in fact not used. Instead, two forms of the word agape may be found: agapêton and agapazomenoi. Agapêton is found in Book 5 of the Odyssey and means "beloved" or "well-loved". Agapazomenoi is found in books 7 and 17 of the Odyssey and means “to treat with affection”. Agape and the verb agapao are used extensively in the Septuagint as the translation of the common Hebrew term for love which is used to denote sexual desire, affection for spouse and children, brotherly love, and God's love for humanity. It is uncertain why agape was chosen, but similarity of consonant sounds (aḥaba) may have played a part. It is not impossible that the Greek concept even 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. AGAPE IN CHRISTIANITY of a female figure holding a chalice at an early Christian Agape Feast . Catacomb of Saints Marcellinus And Peter , Via Labicana , Rome ]] See Also: 1 Corinthians 13 ''Agape'' received a broader usage under later Christian writers as the word that specifically denoted "Christian" love or " Charity " (), or even God himself (, ''Theos ein agape'', "God is Love"). The New Testament provides a number of definitions and examples of ''agape'' that generally expand on the meanings derived from ancient texts, denoting brotherly love, love of one's spouse or children, and the love of God for all people. The Christian usage of the term ''agape'' comes directly from the canonical Gospel s' account of the teachings of Jesus . When asked what was the greatest commandment, Jesus said, "'Love (''agapao'') the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love (''agapao'') your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." () At the Sermon On The Mount , Jesus said: Christian writers have generally described ''agape'', as expounded on by Jesus, as a form of love which is both unconditional and voluntary. '' 39). In the New Testament the noun ''agape'' is always used to describe God's love. However, the verb form ''agapao'' is at times used in a negative sense, where it retains its more general meaning of "affection" rather than divine love. Such examples include:
Agape as a meal See Also: Agape feast The word ''agape'' in its plural form is used in the New Testament to describe a meal or feast eaten by early Christians, as in Jude , and 2nd Peter . It is sometimes believed to be either related to the Eucharist , or another term used for the Eucharist. REFERENCES 1 SEE ALSO |
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