Agape is a Greek word that denotes a selfless, unconditional love that is often depicted in Christian theology. It is a love that is given freely without expecting anything in return, symbolizing the highest form of love. Agape is contrasted with other types of love, such as "eros" (erotic or romantic love) and "philia" (brotherly or friendship love). In modern times, agape is often used in both religious and secular contexts to describe an attitude of generosity, compassion, and empathy.
Historically, the concept of agape has been explored in the works of early Christian writers, where it was considered to be the type of love that God has for humanity. Agape love is self-sacrificing and unconditional, which makes it central to many religious teachings, including Christianity and Buddhism. In contemporary culture, "agape" is also used to describe a wide-open expression of astonishment or surprise, typically in response to something unexpected or awe-inspiring.
The evolution of agape from a religious concept to a more general expression of profound surprise shows how language can adapt and incorporate different layers of meaning over time. Today, agape represents not only the highest form of love but also the human response to wonder and awe in the face of the extraordinary.