Love: Why Love's Still in need of Love

Love, a universal emotion, has been interpreted and expressed in myriad ways throughout history. Our understanding of love, often rooted in cultural and linguistic nuances, profoundly shapes our worldview and subsequent actions. This exploration delves into how the Western conception of love, primarily framed by desire and possession, contrasts with the Biblical Hebrew understanding of love as giving. We'll examine how these differing perspectives have influenced historical events and continue to shape our modern culture, even as we see evidence of it on the home pages of News sites around the world.

The Western Love Affair: Desire and Possession

In the Western world, love is often framed by the concepts of desire and possession. These notions stem from the etymological roots of the word "love" in Germanic and Latin languages. For example, the Old English word "lief" (meaning "dear") is related to the German "lieb," which signifies affection and desire. Similarly, the Latin "amor" (love) is connected to the verb "amare," which means "to love" or "to desire" and comes from the source word meaning to "tie up," "take" or to "hold (possess)." Think about traditional wedding vows for a moment, "Do you take, insert name, and promise to love and hold..."

This understanding of love as desire and possession has had a profound impact on Western culture. It has influenced our literature, art, and philosophy, shaping our ideals of romantic love, marriage, and family. For instance, the chivalric tradition of the Middle Ages idealized love as a courtly pursuit, where knights sought to win the favor of their beloved through acts of valor and devotion.

Biblical Hebrew Love: Giving What is Good

In contrast to the Western perspective, the righteous concept of love found in the ancient Hebrew scripture, "ahavah," is rooted in the act of giving. It is not about desire or possession but about deciding to live righteously and give what is good in all circumstances even to the point of self-sacrifice and selfless service. This understanding of love is exemplified in the New Testament, where it says, for God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten son. This is the most extreme act of love in scripture. This is why it says, that no greater love is there than one who lays down his life for a friend.

The Biblical Hebrew concept of love has had a significant impact on Western culture, particularly through exposure to some Biblical ideas present in Christianity. It has inspired our understanding of morality, ethics, and social justice. The idea that love is the greatest commandment has inspired countless acts of compassion, charity, and sacrifice. But these conflicting natures of love have left us utterly confused over time. The same person capable of profound acts of charity can also display the most heinous acts all in the name of love.

Historical Impact and Modern Influence

The differing conceptions of love have had profound historical and cultural implications. For example, the Western emphasis on desire and possession has contributed to notions of romantic love as a central component of human fulfillment. This has shaped social norms, cultural practices, and even political movements.

On the other hand, the Biblical Hebrew understanding of love has influenced religious teachings, social justice movements, and humanitarian efforts. The emphasis on giving and service has inspired acts of compassion, charity, and self-sacrifice.

However, modern culture has witnessed a resurgence of some of the negative tendencies associated with the ancient Western understanding of love. For example, the commercialization of love, often portrayed as a product to be bought or sold, can reduce it to a superficial or transactional experience. Additionally, the emphasis on physical attractiveness and external validation can create unrealistic expectations and contribute to a culture of dissatisfaction and superficial relationships.

Our understanding of love, shaped by our cultural lens and linguistic foundations, profoundly influences our worldview and actions. While the Western emphasis on desire and possession has had a significant impact on our culture, the Biblical Hebrew understanding of love is more than an option, it is a strong departure from what we know and see. If you are ready to see and know more about this kind of love, follow me here or on Facebook as I continue to post on these topics.

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Bob L. Lampkin is a professional linguist, author and Rabbinic Minister providing Messianic teachings on numerous life changing topics from an ancient and foundational perspective that has been lost with time. He is committed to helping those who have been damaged by trauma. We are committed to providing you with the resources and support you need to deepen your faith and live in Shalom. Click here to learn more:

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