The Greek and Hebrew Words for Love in the Bible

The Bible offers a rich tapestry of love expressed through various Hebrew and Greek terms. In Hebrew, the word ‘chesed’ signifies covenantal love, emphasizing loyalty and faithfulness, especially found in Psalms. Another term, ‘ahavah’, denotes a more general love, evident in Genesis 22:2, conveying a relational aspect. In contrast, Greek introduces 'agape', a selfless, unconditional love discussed in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, which is pivotal for Christian teachings. Romantic love is portrayed through ‘eros’, while ‘philia’ refers to deep friendship and familial bonds, as seen in John 15:13. Furthermore, 2 Timothy 3:3 highlights the importance of familial love. Understanding these nuanced definitions can deepen one’s appreciation of love within the biblical context.