The Greek language has at least six different words to describe love, while modern English only has one word. These words include agápē, érōs, philía, philautía, storgē, and xenía. Some of these terms are connected to the ideas of ancient Greek philosophers like Aristotle and Plato.

List of concepts

There are several types of love in Ancient Greek, each with its own meaning and use. Here is a summary of these concepts:

• Agape ( ἀγάπη , agápē ) means affection, such as greeting someone warmly or showing care for the dead. The word appears in ancient texts, including those by Homer. In Christian teachings, agape refers to unconditional love, like the love between God and people. It also describes a type of meal shared in love. Thomas Aquinas, a Christian thinker, said agape is "wishing the good for another person."

• Eros ( ἔρως , érōs ) refers to love linked to sexual desire. In Modern Greek, the word erotas means intimate love. Plato, a philosopher, explained that eros begins with a person but can grow into admiration for their inner beauty. He believed this love might eventually lead to loving beauty itself, which is why "platonic love" means love without physical attraction. In Plato’s Symposium, Socrates argued that eros helps people remember spiritual truths and ideal beauty.

• Philia ( φιλία , philía ) means affectionate regard, such as friendship between equals. It is a calm, virtuous love. Aristotle, a philosopher, wrote in Nicomachean Ethics that philia includes loyalty to friends, family, and community. It requires fairness, shared values, and close relationships.

• Storge ( στοργή , storgē ) means love and affection, especially between parents and children. It describes natural care, like the bond between parents and their children. It is rarely used in ancient texts, except to explain family relationships. It can also mean simple acceptance, such as tolerating someone or loving a sports team.

• Philautia ( φιλαυτία , philautía ) means self-love. Loving oneself can be seen as necessary for happiness or as a flaw, like selfishness. The Greeks divided this into two types: one is unhealthy self-centeredness, and the other is caring for oneself in a healthy way. Aristotle believed philautia is the basis for love between family, friends, and even lovers.

• Xenia ( ξενία , xenía ) was an ancient Greek tradition of hospitality, called "guest-friendship." It required kindness, giving gifts, and fairness to visitors. Greeks believed this was a moral duty, guided by gods like Zeus and Athena. The story of The Odyssey shows how hospitality was important. For example, the suitors of Penelope failed to welcome Odysseus properly, which led to their punishment.