Love is a profound emotion that can affect our entire world. It is often the reason for a spouse’s long-term commitment to a partner, the passion for a creative project or career, or the enduring devotion to a child with emotional or physical challenges. For centuries philosophers and religious scholars have speculated about the meaning of love, and it has also been explored in such disciplines as psychology, biology, neuroscience, and anthropology.
The word “love” can have several meanings, ranging from fondness to a desire for one’s own well-being and that of others, to sexual arousal and erotic attraction. It can be felt for a spouse, family member, friend, pet, or even for an idea, cause, or political movement. Love has been a subject of discussion in the arts, literature, and movies, and it has been a central theme in many cultures throughout history.
In the Bible, love is a central concept of Christian faith, and Jesus Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross was a clear example of selfless love for his fellow human beings. A biblical definition of love involves a deep and abiding affection for another person, as well as a generous concern for their welfare.
There are numerous theories of love, including the color wheel theory which suggests that there are three primary, three secondary, and nine tertiary loves. Some theorists suggest that we all fall in and out of these loves depending on our circumstances and experiences.
A more practical definition of love comes from Thomas Aquinas, who describes it as a desire for the good of another person. This is the kind of love that motivates Christians to love their enemies, and to care about the welfare of children, friends, and strangers. It is a selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional attitude toward others, and it is rooted in the biblical concept of divine love for all humanity.
People who prefer this love language like to hear affirmations of their value, such as compliments, praise, encouragement, and reminders that they are special and unique. They are also energized by quality time together, such as talking and laughing, listening with interest, and focusing all of their attention on one another.
This love language is a powerful way to demonstrate that you truly care about your loved ones. It is the reason that you would stay with a partner who drives you crazy, or support a friend who has a destructive habit pattern, or why you cheer on your favorite sports team. This type of love is what gives us the strength to endure through difficult times and transform our lives. It is the kind of love that keeps us going, and that is why it is so important to nurture it.