4 Names for LoveНамуна

Phileo

What is love? Is it the romantic feelings between a boyfriend and girlfriend? Is it the affection between siblings? Is it the deep care between a parent and child? You’d probably say it’s all of the above. So how come we use one word to describe so many different feelings and relationships?

In the Greek language, there are eight different words to describe love! We’re taking a look at four of them, and the first is Phileo. Phileo describes the love between two friends – love that’s encouraging and kind and wants the best for the other person. It’s also described as “brotherly love.” (It’s where the city of Philadelphia gets its name!)

The Bible tells us about Phileo love in 1 John 3:16: “We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we should also give up our lives for our brothers and sisters.” Who are the friends in your life that show you Phileo love, who you know would make sacrifices for your sake? Who can you think of that you would do the same for?