What is “Love”?
Love means many things to many people. Sometimes it is significant and sometimes it is meaningless. To the ancient Greeks there were 8 words that all translated to “love.” These 8 words were Agape, Phileo, Storge, Mania, Ludus, Pragma, Philautia and Eros.
Eros is the word where we get the term erotic. It is a sexual, romantic love. It is the one we most often are thinking when we say or ask “Do you love me” or “I love you.”
Storge is the love that is bonded by family. The love a mother has for her child or the love between siblings
Mania Is obsession. A love that that reaches the point of madness.
Philautia is self-esteem (good) or hubris (bad). It is how we love ourselves.
Pragma is a love based on obligation or logic. This business like love is seen in relationships where practicality takes precedence over sex and romance. Or love of country or for a team.
Ludus is love involving play. Noncommital such as flirting or casual sex.
Phileo is the type of love that involves friendship. Love that isn’t based on physical attraction.
Agape is the kind of love that is felt by a person willing to do anything for another, including sacrificing themselves, without expecting anything in return.