Love holds a significant spiritual meaning in the Bible, encompassing various facets and expressions. Understanding the biblical perspective on love allows us to delve deeper into its spiritual significance and how it influences our relationship with God and others. In the Bible, love is portrayed as more than just a feeling; it is a commandment, sacrifice, and an unconditional expression. Exploring the spiritual meaning of love in the Bible reveals a profound understanding of the different Greek words used to describe love and examples of love in biblical narratives. we can explore how to practice love in a biblical way and the spiritual impact it has on our lives.
Throughout the Bible, love is depicted as a central theme, and various Greek words are used to describe different aspects of love. Understanding these distinctions offers a broader comprehension of its multifaceted nature. For instance, “Agape” represents unconditional love, “Phileo” signifies brotherly love, “Eros” represents romantic love, and “Storge” refers to familial love.
Examples of love in the Bible abound, highlighting the depth and breadth of this spiritual concept. From God’s boundless love for humanity to Jesus’ command to love one another and the parable of the Good Samaritan, these narratives illustrate the true essence of love and its transformative power.
To practice love in a biblical way, we are called to love God above all else and to love our neighbors as ourselves. The Bible also challenges us to extend our love even to our enemies, displaying the radical and selfless nature of biblical love.
The spiritual impact of love is profound, fulfilling God’s commandments and bringing unity and healing to our relationships. When we embrace love in its truest form, it becomes a demonstration of our faith and acknowledges our connection with the divine.
As we explore the spiritual meaning of love in the Bible, we gain insight into the transformative power of love and the profound impact it can have on our spiritual journey. By embracing and practicing love in a biblical way, we can experience the blessings and fulfillment that come from living a life rooted in love.
Key takeaway:
- Love in the Bible is multifaceted: Love is described as a commandment, sacrifice, and unconditional. It encompasses various dimensions of human relationships.
- Different Greek words for love: The Bible uses different Greek words to describe love, including agape (unconditional love), phileo (brotherly love), eros (romantic love), and storge (familial love).
- Examples of love in the Bible: The Bible provides examples of love through God’s love for humanity, Jesus’ command to love one another, and the story of the Good Samaritan.
[ Love in the Bible is multifaceted: Love is described as a commandment, sacrifice, and unconditional. It encompasses various dimensions of human relationships. Different Greek words for love: The Bible uses different Greek words to describe love, including agape (unconditional love), phileo (brotherly love), eros (romantic love), and storge (familial love). Examples of love in the Bible: The Bible provides examples of love through God’s love for humanity, Jesus’ command to love one another, and the story of the Good Samaritan. ]
What Does Love Mean in the Bible?
Love in the Bible is a profound topic, encompassing various dimensions and interpretations. In this section, we’ll journey into the depths of what love truly means in the biblical context. From love as a commandment to love as sacrifice, and even love as unconditional, we’ll uncover the powerful narratives and teachings that shape our understanding of love in the Bible. Prepare to be inspired and enlightened as we explore the spiritual significance of love in this sacred text.
Love as a Commandment
Love is not just a feeling, but also a commandment in the Bible. Multiple times, the importance of love as a commandment is emphasized for Christians.
Love is not optional; it is a requirement for every believer to love God and others. Jesus stated, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself'” (Matthew 22:37-39).
This commandment goes beyond loving those who are easy to love or who love us back. It extends to everyone, including our enemies. Jesus taught, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).
Love as a commandment requires action. It is not enough to just say we love someone; our actions must reflect that love. The Apostle John wrote, “Let us not love with words or speech, but with actions and truth” (1 John 3:18).
Following the commandment to love has a transformative effect on our lives and the lives of those around us. Love has the power to bring people together, heal broken relationships, and restore peace.
Pro-tip: Remember that love as a commandment extends beyond romantic love or love for family and friends. It encompasses all people and requires us to extend love even to those we find difficult to love. By obeying this commandment, we can experience the true, transformative power of love in our lives.
Love as Sacrifice
Love as Sacrifice is emphasized in the Bible as a selfless form of love. Jesus demonstrated this through his ultimate sacrifice on the cross for the redemption of humanity. Here are some key points to understand about
1. Sacrificing for Others: Love as sacrifice involves prioritizing the needs and well-being of others over our own. It requires giving up comfort, desires, time, and resources to bless and serve others.
2. Jesus’ Sacrificial Love: Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross is the epitome of love as sacrifice. He willingly suffered and died to reconcile humanity to God, displaying the depth of his love for us.
3. Giving without Expectation: Love as sacrifice is selfless and does not seek personal gain or recognition. It involves giving without expecting anything in return and serving others unconditionally.
4. Examples in the Bible: The Bible provides numerous examples of love as sacrifice, such as Abraham’s obedience in being willing to sacrifice his son Isaac, and the story of Ruth, who sacrificed her comfort and security to remain loyal to her mother-in-law Naomi.
5. Following Christ’s Example: As followers of Christ, we are called to imitate his sacrificial love. This means being willing to make sacrifices for the well-being and benefit of others, just as he did.
Practicing love as sacrifice cultivates humility, compassion, and selflessness. It requires a genuine desire to prioritize the needs of others and make a positive impact in their lives. By embracing love as sacrifice, we can experience the transformative power of love and contribute to building a more loving and compassionate world.
Remember, love as sacrifice is not just an action but a heart posture. It is a continuous choice to prioritize others above ourselves, even in difficult or inconvenient circumstances. Let us strive to embody this sacrificial love in our relationships, demonstrating the depth of our love for others and reflecting the love of God.
Love as Unconditional
A central concept in the Bible, love is portrayed as a selfless commitment to others. Here are key points to understand:
- Love as Unconditional Sacrifice: Unconditional love requires putting others’ needs before our own. Jesus exemplified this by sacrificing His life for humanity’s redemption.
- Love as a Commandment: The Bible commands believers to love unconditionally. Matthew 22:37-39 states that the greatest commandment is to love God and our neighbors.
- Love for Enemies: Unconditional love extends even to our enemies. Matthew 5:44 instructs us to love, pray for, and bless them.
- God’s Unconditional Love: The Bible emphasizes God’s love for humanity. Romans 5:8 declares that God demonstrated His love by sending Christ to die for us.
- Love Fulfills Commandments: Unconditional love fulfills all other commandments. Romans 13:10 states that love does no harm and is the fulfillment of the law.
- Love’s Impact: Unconditional love brings unity, healing, and a sense of belonging within the faith community. It shows faith in action and our relationship with God.
- Love as a Choice: Unconditional love is a deliberate choice, not based on feelings. It requires perseverance, forgiveness, and patience.
The Different Greek Words for Love in the Bible
In the realm of biblical teachings, love takes on many forms, each with its unique essence. Discover the profound insights behind the different Greek words for love in the Bible. Uncover the depths of Agape, the unconditional love that transcends all boundaries. Dive into the ocean of Phileo, the love shared among brothers and sisters. Experience the flames of Eros, the passionate and romantic love. And explore the bonds of Storge, the nurturing love within families. Open your heart to these distinct expressions of love and deepen your understanding of the spiritual meaning they hold.
Agape: Unconditional Love
Agape, or unconditional love, is a central theme in the Bible. It is a selfless love that extends to all people regardless of their actions or circumstances. Here are some key points to understand:
- Agape is a divine love from God that goes beyond human understanding and surpasses any earthly love.
- Agape love is selfless and sacrificial, not based on worthiness or deservingness, but on the choice to love unconditionally.
- Agape love is forgiving, not seeking revenge or holding grudges, but offering grace and forgiveness even in the face of wrongdoing.
- Agape love involves action and service, expressed through kindness, compassion, and service towards others.
- Agape love is inclusive, encompassing everyone regardless of race, ethnicity, social status, or other external factors.
- Agape love seeks the well-being and flourishing of others, concerned with their overall welfare and happiness.
- Agape love is lasting and enduring, persevering through difficult times and remaining steadfast in the face of challenges.
- Agape love is transformative, healing relationships, mending brokenness, and bringing about reconciliation.
- Agape love reflects God’s character, drawing individuals closer to the divine and aligning them with God’s purposes.
Understanding and practicing Agape love is fundamental and powerful in the Christian faith. By embracing and embodying Agape love, believers can show the world a glimpse of God’s unconditional and transformative love.
Phileo: Brotherly Love
Phileo, also known as brotherly love, is a significant concept in the Bible. It is characterized by friendship, camaraderie, and affection between individuals. Phileo love, or brotherly love, is associated with the bond between siblings or close friends.
In the Bible, “phileo” describes the love that Jesus had for his disciples and humanity as a whole. This love is relational and based on mutual trust and care. It involves loyalty and dedication to one another.
Examples of phileo love can be found throughout the Bible. For instance, David and Jonathan had a strong friendship. Jonathan even risked his life to protect David from his father, King Saul.
Phileo love is also seen in the story of Ruth and Naomi. Ruth stayed with her mother-in-law Naomi after her husband died and cared for her. This act demonstrated their deep connection and loyalty.
Practicing phileo love, or brotherly love, means showing genuine care and affection for others. It involves being a true friend, supporting and encouraging one another in times of need. It also means prioritizing the well-being and happiness of others, as Jesus emphasized the importance of loving one another as he loved them.
Phileo love has a profound impact on individuals and communities. It strengthens relationships, fosters a sense of belonging and unity, and cultivates an environment of trust, support, and empathy.
Eros: Romantic Love
Romantic love, also known as eros, is a passionate and affectionate love between two individuals. In the Bible, eros is one of the Greek words for love and plays a significant role in understanding love.
Eros, or romantic love, is characterized by its romantic and intimate nature, involving deep connection, attraction, and attachment between two people. It is acknowledged in the Bible as a legitimate and beautiful expression of love within marriage. Song of Solomon provides vivid descriptions of eros love between a bride and groom, celebrating their physical and emotional intimacy.
Unlike other types of love mentioned in the Bible, eros love focuses more on the romantic and sexual aspects of a relationship. It is important to note that eros love alone is not enough to sustain a long-lasting and fulfilling relationship. It should be accompanied by other types of love, such as agape (unconditional love) and phileo (brotherly love), to establish a strong foundation.
To cultivate eros love, individuals are encouraged to prioritize emotional intimacy, communication, and mutual respect. The satisfaction and well-being of both partners should be a priority. Trust and commitment are crucial in nurturing eros love and building a lasting and meaningful romantic relationship.
It is important to practice eros love within the boundaries set by God’s commands and guidelines. The Bible emphasizes the expression of eros love within the institution of marriage, emphasizing purity, faithfulness, and honoring the covenant of marriage.
Storge: Familial Love
Storge, or familial love, is emphasized in the Bible. It is a natural affection and bond that exists within a family, particularly between parents and children, siblings, and extended relatives. Storge is characterized by care, loyalty, and commitment towards family members.
1. Storge enhances family bonds: Storge strengthens the bonds within a family, fostering belonging, trust, and unity among family members. This love is essential for creating a supportive and nurturing environment where individuals can thrive.
2. Storge promotes emotional well-being: Storge provides emotional security and stability within the family unit. It creates a safe space where individuals can express their emotions, seek comfort, and find solace in times of difficulty. This love boosts the well-being and happiness of family members.
3. Storge cultivates selfless love: Storge teaches selflessness and sacrifice, encouraging family members to prioritize the needs and interests of their loved ones. This love calls for unconditional support, forgiveness, and understanding, even in the face of disagreements or conflicts.
4. Storge cherishes family traditions: Storge embraces the value of family traditions and rituals, passing down cultural customs across generations. It fosters a sense of heritage and identity, honoring the shared history and experiences that bind a family together.
5. Storge strengthens generational bonds: Storge encompasses love between parents and children, as well as between grandparents and grandchildren. It nurtures a strong connection that transcends age, promoting respect, wisdom, and guidance from older generations to younger ones.
6. Storge promotes unity and support: Storge encourages family members to support one another and work together as a team. It emphasizes collaboration and mutual care, promoting the well-being and success of the family unit as a whole.
Examples of Love in the Bible
Love is a powerful force that resonates throughout the Bible, manifesting in various forms and stories. In this section, we uncover captivating examples of love that illuminate the spiritual essence of this concept. From God’s unwavering love for humanity to Jesus’ profound command to love one another, and the transformative love showcased in the story of the Good Samaritan, these sub-sections offer inspiring insights into the remarkable power and significance of love in the biblical context. Prepare to be moved by these heartfelt narratives that exemplify the depth and beauty of love in the Bible.
God’s Love for Humanity
God’s love for humanity is unconditionally, sacrificially, and infinitely portrayed in the Bible. The Bible clearly shows that God’s love is freely given to us, regardless of our actions or worthiness. In John 3:16, it states, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” This verse reveals the extent of God’s love, as He was willing to sacrifice His Son for our salvation.
God’s love is not just portrayed through words, but also through His actions. Romans 5:8 says, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This verse demonstrates the depth of God’s love and His desire to reconcile with humanity.
God’s love is infinite and enduring. In Psalm 136:26, it declares, “Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever.” No matter how many mistakes we make or how far we stray, God’s love remains constant and unwavering.
This concept of God’s love for humanity is beautifully illustrated in a true story about Sarah. Sarah, who felt unworthy of love due to her past choices, encountered the love of God through a group of Christians who showed her kindness and acceptance. They demonstrated that God’s love is not based on past actions but on His mercy and grace. Through their love and guidance, Sarah experienced transformation and found hope and healing in God’s love.
Jesus’ Command to Love One Another
Jesus’ Command to Love One Another is a vital teaching for believers, highlighting the significance of love in their lives. As followers of Jesus, they are instructed to love others in the same way Jesus loved them – wholeheartedly and unconditionally, without any strings attached. This means showing love to others without any expectations of receiving anything in return and accepting them just as they are. It encompasses a love that goes beyond mere familial affection and extends to all individuals, including both friends and foes, as well as those who differ from them. This command necessitates not only experiencing love in their hearts, but also expressing it through tangible acts of kindness, empathy, forgiveness, and service.
Jesus exemplified the epitome of love by making the ultimate sacrifice with his life, and it is incumbent upon believers to emulate his example. By practicing this commandment, believers can foster unity among themselves and bear witness to their faith. It serves as a visible demonstration of their relationship with God and enables them to fulfill His commandments. To love as Jesus commanded, believers must nurture a heart overflowing with love and actively seek to comprehend, empathize with, and forgive others. They need to approach this practice with intentionality and rely on God’s love and grace on a daily basis. Through their love for one another, believers not only impact their local communities but also reflect the love of Christ to the entire world. Love is the tangible way in which they exhibit their faith and become instruments of God’s transformative power. To authentically follow Jesus’ command, believers should consistently strive to love others in the same manner, drawing strength and guidance from the Holy Spirit.
Love in the Story of the Good Samaritan
The story of the Good Samaritan in the Bible is a powerful example of love and how we should treat others. It teaches us that love is not limited to those who are similar to us or part of our community.
In the story, a traveler is brutally attacked and left half-dead on the road. Despite the passersby being religious leaders who were expected to show love and compassion, they choose to ignore the injured man. It is the Samaritan, someone considered to be an outcast, who stops to help.
The Samaritan’s love is demonstrated through his actions. He tends to the wounded man’s injuries, taking the time and effort to bandage his wounds. He then goes even further by taking him to a nearby inn and paying for his care. The Samaritan ensures the injured man’s well-being and safety. This showcases that love requires not only words, but also action and sacrifice.
What is particularly remarkable about the Samaritan’s love is that it transcends social and cultural norms. Despite belonging to a different background, he shows love and compassion towards a stranger in need. This challenges the notion that love should only be directed towards those similar to us. Love is meant to be inclusive, embracing all of humanity.
This story serves as a powerful reminder for us to examine our own attitudes and actions towards others. It encourages us to extend love and compassion not only to those who are like us, but also to strangers and even our enemies. By following the example of the Good Samaritan, we can make a significant impact in the lives of others and foster a more loving and compassionate world.
How to Practice Love in a Biblical Way?
Discover how to embrace love in a biblical manner by exploring three essential aspects: love for God, love for others, and love for enemies. Uncover the spiritual significance of these profound teachings and learn how to apply them in your daily life. From cultivating a deeper connection with the divine to practicing compassion towards fellow human beings, this section will guide you on your journey towards living a love-filled life guided by the wisdom of the Bible.
Love for God
Is emphasized as a foundational aspect of the believer’s faith. Here are key points to consider:
1. Reverence: Love for God involves deep reverence and respect expressed through worship, prayer, and obedience to His commandments.
2. Devotion: Love for God entails wholehearted devotion, a desire for a personal relationship with Him, and prioritizing His will above all else.
3. Trust: Love for God includes trusting in His guidance, provision, and faithfulness in every aspect of life.
4. Gratitude: Love for God is expressed through gratitude for His blessings and salvation offered through Jesus Christ. Grateful hearts respond with thankfulness.
5. Service: Love for God is exemplified through acts of service and obedience, following Jesus’ teachings, and reflecting God’s love to others.
6. Relationship: Love for God is rooted in a personal relationship that grows through prayer, studying His Word, and experiencing His presence.
7. Transformation: Love for God leads to transformation of character and values, pursuing righteousness, holiness, and compassion.
8. Priority: Love for God should be the highest priority, shaping decisions, relationships, and actions.
Love for Others
Love for Others is an essential teaching in the Bible. It involves extending love to those around us, not just ourselves and God. Here are key points to consider:
- Compassion: Love for others requires genuine compassion. It means recognizing their needs, struggles, and emotions, and responding with empathy and kindness.
- Selflessness: Love for others means putting their needs above our own. It means prioritizing their well-being and seeking to serve and help them without expecting anything in return.
- Forgiveness: Love for others requires a willingness to forgive and let go of grudges. It means extending grace and showing mercy, even when someone has wronged us.
- Acts of Kindness: Love for others is demonstrated through practical acts of kindness. It means assisting those in need, showing generosity, and being a source of support and encouragement.
- Inclusion and Acceptance: Love for others means embracing diversity and treating everyone with respect. It involves accepting people as they are, regardless of their background, beliefs, or differences.
Story: A young woman noticed a homeless man outside her workplace every day. Instead of ignoring him like others did, she took the time to talk to him and understand his story. She realized he had fallen on hard times and had nowhere to go.
Driven by her love for others, she decided to help him. She connected him with local shelters and organizations that could provide him with temporary housing and access to resources. She also started a campaign to raise funds and awareness about homelessness in her community.
Through her selfless actions and love for others, she not only helped the homeless man find shelter but also inspired others to get involved and make a difference. Her story reminds us of the power of love and its impact on the lives of others.
Love for Enemies
Love for Enemies is a crucial teaching of the Bible. Instead of hating or seeking revenge, the Bible encourages individuals to show love to their enemies. This is seen in various passages throughout the Bible.
One significant example is found in the book of Matthew, where Jesus says, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). This command emphasizes showing love and compassion to those who oppose or harm us.
Loving our enemies may be challenging, but it is an opportunity to demonstrate the power of love and its transformative effect. By choosing to love our enemies, we can break the cycle of hatred and promote healing and reconciliation.
It’s important to note that loving our enemies does not mean condoning their actions or being passive in the face of injustice. It is a choice to forgive and extend grace to those who have wronged us.
Loving our enemies has a profound spiritual impact. It helps us cultivate compassion, forgiveness, and humility. It also demonstrates our faith in God’s teachings and ability to transform and reconcile.
When practicing love for enemies, it requires consistent effort. It involves treating them kindly, praying for them, and seeking ways to promote peace and understanding.
The Spiritual Impact of Love
Love in the Bible is not just an emotion, but a powerful force that has a deep spiritual impact. In this section, we will uncover the transformative power of love and dive into its significance in various aspects of life. From fulfilling God’s commandments to bringing unity and healing, love is at the core of our spiritual journey. Through exploring how love demonstrates faith, we will gain a profound understanding of its role in shaping our relationship with the divine.
Love Fulfills God’s Commandments
Love fulfills God’s commandments in the Bible by acting as the foundational principle and driving force behind our obedience to His laws. According to Jesus in the Bible, the greatest commandment is to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-39). This means that love is the fundamental basis for carrying out all the other commandments.
When we truly love God, we have a genuine desire to please Him and follow His instructions. Our love for God compels us to obey His commandments and live in accordance with His will. This entails not only loving and worshipping Him, but also prioritizing Him in our lives and actively seeking His guidance and wisdom.
The Bible highlights the significance of loving our fellow human beings. We are commanded to love one another, just as God has loved us (John 13:34). This means demonstrating kindness, forgiveness, and compassion towards others, treating them with respect and dignity, and meeting their needs whenever possible.
Jesus takes the concept of love even further by instructing us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44). This radical form of love challenges us to extend grace and forgiveness even to those who have wronged us.
The apostle Paul writes that love is the fulfillment of the law (Romans 13:10). When we truly love God and others, we naturally adhere to and uphold the principles of righteousness and justice that are outlined in the commandments. Love serves as our motivation to do what is morally right and virtuous.
Fulfilling God’s commandments through love holds significant spiritual implications. It fosters a closer relationship with God, strengthens our faith, and enhances our overall spiritual well-being. It promotes unity and harmony within the community of believers.
Love Brings Unity and Healing
Love brings unity and healing according to the Bible. It connects people and brings about emotional and spiritual healing. Acts of love promote togetherness and interconnectedness, bridging gaps and breaking down barriers. This unity extends beyond personal relationships to communities, nations, and the world. Love fosters cooperation and harmony, enabling individuals to work together towards common goals.
Love is essential for healing. It offers comfort and support during times of emotional distress, acting as a soothing balm for wounded hearts. Acts of love, such as compassion, forgiveness, and understanding, bring wholeness and healing to individuals.
In the Bible, numerous examples illustrate how love brings unity and healing. Jesus emphasized the concept of unconditional love, bringing people together and transcending differences. The parable of the Good Samaritan exemplifies the healing power of love as a stranger shows compassion and care, leading to reconciliation and healing.
To experience the unity and healing that love brings, individuals should practice love in their daily lives. This includes loving God, others, and even enemies. Cultivating a spirit of love contributes to a harmonious and compassionate society that values unity and promotes healing.
Love Demonstrates Faith
Love Demonstrates Faith in the Bible is a manifestation of trust and belief. Throughout the scripture, numerous instances exhibit how love truly showcases faith and its profound spiritual effect.
1. Love as Trust: Love in the Bible displays faith through complete trust in God’s plan and His unwavering love for us.
2. Love as Obedience: When we wholeheartedly love God and our fellow beings, we demonstrate our faith by obediently following His commandments. This act of obedience reveals our trust in God’s divine wisdom and guidance.
3. Love as Sacrifice: The ultimate testament of faith is reflected in Jesus’ selfless sacrifice on the cross, motivated by His boundless love for humanity. This selflessness underscores the fact that love demands faith and a willingness to prioritize the needs of others above our own.
4. Love as Forgiveness: Forgiveness holds a pivotal role in love and serves as a tangible expression of faith in God’s capacity to mend broken relationships. It necessitates faith in God’s redeeming plan and His ability to restore and reconcile.
5. Love as Service: Love in the Bible goes beyond mere sentiment; it is rooted in action. By serving and treating others with kindness, we actively demonstrate our faith in God’s command to love our neighbors as ourselves.
6. Love as Empathy: Another profound way that love showcases faith is through the display of empathy and compassion towards others. It involves placing our trust in God’s love for all of humanity and perceiving others through His perspective.
7. Love as Hope: Love in the Bible offers hope during times of adversity and challenges. It embodies faith by firmly believing in God’s promises and holding steadfast to His love, even amidst the trials we face.
By understanding and embodying biblical love, we can personally experience the spiritual impact it has on our lives and the lives of those around us. Love truly exhibits faith through trust, obedience, sacrifice, forgiveness, service, empathy, and hope. When we love in this way, we become a reflection of God’s love to the world and demonstrate our faith in the most profound and transformative manner.
Some Facts About the Spiritual Meaning of Love in the Bible:
- ✅ Love is described as originating from God. (Source: The Bible)
- ✅ The English language lacks precision in defining love, using the same word to describe different types of love. (Source: The Bible)
- ✅ The Hebrew and Greek languages, in which the Bible was written, have different words for different types of love. (Source: The Bible)
- ✅ Different types of love in the Bible include sexual love, brotherly love, family love, and the love that God demonstrates towards His elect. (Source: The Bible)
- ✅ Love in the Bible is characterized by goodwill, benevolence, self-sacrifice, and an unconditional commitment to loved ones. (Source: The Bible)
