Agape

Agape is a Greek term used to describe the highest form of love or charity. It is often defined as a selfless and sacrificial love. This type of love is unique because it transcends human circumstances. It does not change based on how a person acts or feels. Unlike brotherly love or self-love, agape is thought to be profound and persistent. Many thinkers describe it as a love that goes beyond normal human nature. It is a concept that has been studied in religion, ethics, and even science.

In ancient Greek literature, the word had several different meanings. The Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon lists three basic descriptions for its use. First, it could mean to greet someone with affection. Second, it could mean to be fond of, prize, or desire something. Third, it could mean to be well pleased or contented. Ancient authors used forms of the word to show love for a spouse or a family. They might also use it to describe affection for a specific activity. Some writers even used it to show affection for the dead. One sepulchral inscription likely honored an army officer held in high esteem by his country.

Christianity gave the word a much broader and more specific usage. In the New Testament, agape refers to the covenant love of God for humanity. It also describes the reciprocal love that humans should feel for God. This concept necessarily extends to the love of one's fellow human beings. This Christian understanding is built upon a Hebrew concept called loving kindness. This idea is taught throughout the Old Testament. The expression "God is love" appears twice in the New Testament in the book of 1 John.

The teachings of Jesus are central to the Christian use of agape. In the Gospels, Jesus described two great commandments. He said people must love the Lord their God with all their heart, soul, and mind. He also said the second commandment is to love your neighbor as yourself. These two ideas are found in both Christian and Jewish traditions. In Judaism, the first part is part of the Shema. The second part is a commandment found in Leviticus. The theologian Tertullian noted in the 2nd century that this love attracted notice from enemies. He wrote that people observed how Christians loved one another.

Many writers have explored the depth of this selfless love. C.S. Lewis wrote about agape in his book, "The Four Loves." He described it as a selfless love committed to the well-being of others. The theologian Karl Barth distinguished agape from other loves by its origin. He argued it comes from a depth of devotion that does not want anything in return. This type of love identifies with the interests of a neighbor. It does so regardless of whether the neighbor is attractive or helpful. It does not expect any reciprocity or return from the other person.

The word also has a practical application in community gatherings. In the New Testament, the plural form "agapae" refers to a meal or feast. These were known as love feasts eaten by early Christians.

Some Christian denominations still observe this tradition today. For example, the Old Order River Brethren and Old Brethren hold a communal Love Feast. They set aside a weekend twice a year for these special meetings. These gatherings include self-examination and part of a three-part Communion observance. It serves as a way to practice communal unity.

Other movements have adopted the term for different spiritual purposes. In the early 20th century, Aleister Crowley developed a movement called Thelema. In Thelemic practice, agape is considered the highest form of love. It is closely associated with a concept called "True Will." The central tenet of Thelema is "Do what thou wilt shall be the whole of the Law." They also teach that "Love is the law, love under will." In this context, agape is the expression of divine will. It helps practitioners find harmony between individual purpose and universal love. It encompasses love for both others and the self.