agape love
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. Selfless, unconditional love: Agape love is a profound, spiritual love characterized by selflessness, compassion, and unconditional goodwill towards others, without any expectation of reciprocation or romantic/sexual elements. It is considered the highest form of love.
Usage and Examples
- As a concept in theology and philosophy: Agape love is often discussed as a divine or principled love.
- The sermon focused on the importance of practicing agape love towards all people, even strangers.
- In his philosophy, agape love is the foundation for a just and compassionate society.
- Describing an action or feeling: It can describe an act motivated by pure, selfless concern.
- Her volunteer work was a true expression of agape love.
- He showed agape love by forgiving his enemy.
Advanced Usage
- "Agape" as a standalone noun: While "agape love" is a common phrase, "agape" alone often carries the same meaning in theological or philosophical contexts.
- The central theme of the text is divine agape.
- Contrast with other love types: Agape is frequently contrasted with other Greek words for love, such as (romantic/sexual love), (brotherly/friendship love), and (familial love).
Variants and Related Words
- Agape (adj.): With the mouth wide open, as in wonder or awe. (Note: This is a homograph with a completely different meaning and origin).
- The audience sat agape during the magician's final trick.
- Agape (n.): A Christian religious meal shared as a sign of love and fellowship; a love feast. (This is an archaic or specific historical use).
Synonyms
- Charity: (In the theological sense of , meaning benevolent goodwill and love for humanity).
- Selfless love: Love characterized by a lack of selfishness.
- Unconditional love: Love given without conditions or requirements.
Antonyms
- Eros: Passionate, romantic, or sexual love.
- Selfishness: Concern chiefly for one's own personal profit or pleasure.
- Apathy: Lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern.
Related Idioms and Phrases
- "To love with agape love": To love someone in a selfless, unconditional manner.
- Despite their differences, she strived to love her neighbor with agape love.
Noun
- selfless love of one person for another without sexual implications (especially love that is spiritual in nature)