So What is Love?

The Hebrew understanding and meaning of the word Love

The Hebrew language, particularly in its biblical and classical forms, reflects a deep, multifaceted understanding of love through several distinct words, each emphasizing different aspects of love's nature and expression.

Unlike English, which primarily uses one word, "love," Hebrew nuances its descriptions, capturing the various dimensions of love's expression in relationships, divine love, love of actions, and emotional states.

Here's a look at some of these Hebrew words for love:

Ahavah (אהבה): This is the most common term for love in the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh).

It encompasses a wide range of loves, including the love between humans (romantic, familial, friendship) and the love between God and humanity. Ahavah involves affection, care, and often a deep sense of commitment. It is considered a deep, abiding love that goes beyond emotions to include actions of care and loyalty.

Chesed (חסד): Often translated as "loving-kindness," chesed.

Is a form of love that combines elements of love, mercy, grace, kindness, and loyalty. Chesed is considered fundamental to God's character in the Hebrew Bible and is expected to be mirrored in human relationships. It is a love that is steadfast, based on covenant loyalty, and often shown through acts of kindness and mercy rather than mere affection.

Raya (רעיה): This word is often translated as "companion" or "friend".

It is used to describe a deep, intimate friendship. In the Song of Solomon, raya is used to describe the love between the bride and groom, highlighting the aspects of friendship and companionship within romantic love.

Dod (דוד): This term is often translated as "beloved" or "uncle,".

But in the context of the Song of Solomon, it refers to a romantic, passionate love. Dod emphasizes the physical and emotional intimacy that characterizes romantic relationships.

Ahava Rabbah (אהבה רבה): This phrase means "great love".

It is used in the context of God's great love for Israel. It emphasizes the magnitude and intensity of love.

Agape (ἀγάπη): Though not a Hebrew word, agape is worth mentioning.

Because agape appears in the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible (the Septuagint) and in the New Testament, reflecting a concept of love that is selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional. It has influenced Jewish and Christian understandings of divine love.

Each of these terms sheds light on the multifaceted nature of love in Hebrew thought, emphasizing that love is not merely an emotion but involves commitment, action, loyalty, and a deep connection between individuals or between humans and the divine.

The Hebrew approach to love is deeply integrated into the fabric of Jewish theology, ethics, and daily practice, reflecting a holistic understanding that encompasses both feeling and action.