### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **agápē**, represented by `{{G26}}`, serves as a central term for **love** and is often translated as **charity**. It appears **116 times** across **106 unique verses** in the Bible. The term signifies affection and benevolence and is also used specially to refer to a love-feast.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G26}}` is used to describe the fundamental nature of God, as the Bible states "God is **love**" [[1 John 4:8]]. This divine **love** is demonstrated through God's actions, such as sending His only begotten Son that we might live through him [[1 John 4:9]] and showing His **love** toward us in that Christ died for us while we were yet sinners [[Romans 5:8]]. For believers, `{{G26}}` is presented as the highest virtue, greater even than faith and hope [[1 Corinthians 13:13]]. It is the identifying mark of Christ's disciples, who are known by their **love** for one another [[John 13:35]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the concept of **love**:
* `{{G25}}` **agapáō** (to love): This is the verb form from which `{{G26}}` is derived. It is used to describe the action of loving, as when Christ **loved** us and gave himself for us [[Ephesians 5:2]].
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis** (faith): Defined as persuasion or moral conviction, this is a core virtue often paired with **love**. Scripture describes **faith** which worketh by **love** [[Galatians 5:6]].
* `{{G1680}}` **elpís** (hope): This virtue is frequently mentioned with **love** and faith. The **love** of God shed abroad in believers' hearts gives a **hope** that maketh not ashamed [[Romans 5:5]].
* `{{G5360}}` **philadelphía** (brotherly love): This term for fraternal affection is presented as a foundational virtue to which believers must add **charity** [[2 Peter 1:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G26}}` is immense, shaping the core of Christian doctrine and practice.
* **The Nature of God:** The statement "God is **love**" [[1 John 4:8]] defines His very essence. His **love** is not a passive feeling but an active reality, demonstrated by sending His Son as a propitiation for sins [[1 John 4:10]].
* **A Fruit of the Spirit:** `{{G26}}` is listed as the first fruit of the Spirit, produced in the life of a believer [[Galatians 5:22]]. It is part of the spirit of power and of a sound mind that God gives to His people [[2 Timothy 1:7]].
* **The Bond of Perfection:** **Charity** is described as "the bond of perfectness" [[Colossians 3:14]], the ultimate virtue that unifies and completes the Christian character. All actions of the believer are to be done with **charity** [[1 Corinthians 16:14]].
* **The Fulfillment of the Law:** The law is fulfilled by love, as **love** worketh no ill to his neighbour [[Romans 13:10]]. The very definition of the **love** of God is that we keep his commandments [[1 John 5:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G26}}` is far more than simple affection. It represents a divine and sacrificial love that is foundational to the Christian faith. It is the very character of God, a fruit of His Spirit in believers, and the ultimate ethic for Christian living. As the defining mark of discipleship and the virtue which never fails [[1 Corinthians 13:8]], **agápē** stands as the central expression of the relationship between God and humanity.
TRV