In the Bible (NIV), the word "love" occurs 686 times: 425 in the Old Testament and 261 in the New Testament. The Old Testament was originally written in Hebrew and the New Testament written in Greek. In those languages, there are few words for love, depending on its kind. C.S. Lewis categorized it into four in his book entitled "The Four Loves."
Here are the four words of love:
Storgē
Pronounced as stor-jay, this term for love in the Holy Bible is a Greek word that describes family love and the affectionate bond between parents and children and brothers and sisters.
In the Bible we can find many examples of family love like Noah and his wife, Jacob's love for his sons and the strong love the sisters Mary and Martha had for their brother Lazarus.
Philos
Philos is the term for love between friends. The friendship of Jonathan and David showed this kind of love. Jonathan went through great length to help protect David from his own father.
"A friend loves at all times." - Proverbs 17:17
Eros
Eros is physical and romantic love. This is like what we see at the send of most Hollywood movies right now.
"Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth- for your love is more delightful than wine." - Song of Songs 1:2
"Take me away with you- let us hurry! Let the king bring me into his chambers." - Song of Songs 1:4
Agape
Agape is a love that is unconditional and selfless. When we love with this kind of love, we are more of giving ourselves. One great example is the love of God. He sacrifices His own son Jesus in order to save us from our sins.
"But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greater of these is love." - 1 Corinthians 13:12
