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Amélie Boukhobza (Clinical Psychologist)
Have you heard of agape love? It’s the purest form of love there is. Here’s everything you need to know about it.
Agape love is a Greek term that refers to unconditional love – which seeks to put the good of others before one’s own. But how does it manifest itself? And how can we achieve it? Amélie Boukhobza, psychologist, tells us more about this subject.
What is agape love?
For Plato, agape represents the third form of love, following sexual love, “eros”, (based on a sensual, carnal, sexual and passionate relationship) and love “Philia” (linked to a feeling of friendship).
Agape love, on the other hand, is associated with a form of “divine” love (that which God would have for humanity, according to certain religions) and is often considered to be the purest and most selfless love.
“Agape love is a third form of love. It is neither Eros, the eroticized love, nor philia which is more of a friendship. It is often described as perfect love, disinterested and unconditional,” confirms Amélie Boukhobza.
In other words, “Agapê is giving without expecting anything in return. Without the need for reciprocity. It is a love offered freely, without conditions.“, continues the psychologist before adding “Agapê is also a selfless love. It is a love that wants to be pure, that is concerned only with the good of the other.”
According to the expert psychologist, agape love is altruistic and manifests itself “through actions and behaviors that are intended only to help and support others“.
“It is a spiritual love, often referred to in many religious traditions as divine, perfect, and sacred love. It is this love that Jesus advocates when he speaks of “loving your neighbor as yourself” she explains.
Agape love can thus be translated into daily life through various actions, such as offering one’s time, showing tolerance, being there for others in difficult times… or even treating one’s neighbor with dignity and respect.
Recognizing your own limitations and putting the needs of others before your own is also essential.
“Finally, agape love is often considered an ideal form of love, compassion and devotion, difficult to achieve, but precious. An ideal to strive for…!”, concludes Amélie Boukhobza.
Slideshow: Discover your love philosophy!