What is Eros love?

Definition of Eros Love

Eros (ἔρως) generally denotes romantic or sexual love, often identified with passion and deep desire. While the term “eros” does not appear as such in the Greek New Testament, the concept of romantically charged, physically intimate love between a husband and wife is addressed in biblical passages. In classical Greek, “eros” was typically associated with intense longing that can range from attraction to deep-seated devotion. Within a biblical framework, the sexual dimension of marital love is ordained as a part of creation (cf. Genesis 1:27–28), intended as a good and purposeful gift.

Biblical Context and Terminology

Biblical discussion of love often focuses on terms such as agape (unconditional, sacrificial love), phileo (brotherly affection), and storge (familial devotion). Though “eros” is not a New Testament word, Scripture does speak of marital intimacy. The Song of Solomon, for instance, paints an evocative portrait of romantic and physical love between husband and wife:

• “Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth! For your love is more delightful than wine.” (Song of Solomon 1:2)

Such poetic expressions affirm the goodness and beauty of romance under the covenant of marriage. Beyond poetry, other biblical passages, like 1 Corinthians 7:2–3, highlight the importance of marital intimacy, instructing spouses to fulfill each other’s physical needs as part of a godly marriage.

Eros Love in Scripture

1. Creation Ordinance. In Genesis 2:24, man and woman come together to become “one flesh,” a uniting that necessarily carries a romantic and sexual component. This union is established before any corruption of sin enters the world, signifying that intimate longing and sexual union are part of God’s created design.

2. Song of Solomon. Often cited as a primary biblical example of love that includes romantic desire. In Song of Solomon 4:9–10, expressions of delight in the beloved’s beauty and character reveal the joyful nature of godly, sexually charged love.

3. Marital Union in the New Testament. While the New Testament likely uses forms of agape and phileo to describe various kinds of love, the physical aspect of marriage remains recognized in verses like Hebrews 13:4: “Marriage should be honored by all and the marriage bed kept undefiled.” This instruction underscores that intimacy within the boundaries of marriage is both honorable and protected by God.

Comparison with Other Types of Love

1. Agape vs. Eros. Agape is unconditional and sacrificial, typically exemplified in God’s love for His people (John 3:16). Eros is romantic and is often driven by attraction or passion. Yet, in a biblical marriage, agape and eros ideally blend, leading to a deep, faithful commitment enriched by affectionate passion.

2. Phileo vs. Eros. Phileo denotes brotherly affection or friendship (John 15:19). In a marriage relationship, friendship (phileo) and romantic passion (eros) complement each other, making the bond both affectionate and passionately committed.

3. Storge vs. Eros. Storge, the familial love (often cited from examples in the Greek language and classical texts), is the natural bond among relatives. A married couple may experience this dimension as they build a home and raise children, but eros distinguishes the spousal relationship from other family connections by its romantic nature.

Purpose and Godly Expression of Eros

1. Reflecting God’s Design. Eros, properly understood and practiced within marriage, reflects God’s design for intimacy and procreation (Genesis 1:28). It fosters emotional oneness and protects against sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 7:2).

2. Fostering Unity. Marital companionship deepens through romantic love. Biblically, husband and wife nurture one another physically and spiritually (Ephesians 5:28–29), mirroring the partnership that God created for human flourishing.

3. Celebrating God’s Gift. Scripture portrays marital intimacy as something to be enjoyed (Proverbs 5:18–19). While biblical instructions set relational boundaries, they also champion the delight and satisfaction that come with God-ordained passion.

Practical Application and Considerations

1. Guarding the Heart and Mind. Believers are cautioned to uphold purity (1 Thessalonians 4:3–5). Eros love is woven into God’s plan for marriage, yet it requires discipline and mutual honor.

2. Building a Healthy Marriage. Emotional intimacy often parallels the physical aspect. Strengthening communication, mutual respect, and faith-based love cultivates an environment for eros to flourish in a God-glorifying way.

3. Avoiding Distortions. Scripture warns against lust and immoral behavior (Matthew 5:28). Eros is a gift, but it can become distorted if pursued outside God’s design. Maintaining biblical principles helps prevent destructive expressions of sexual desire.

Historical and Apologetic Insights

1. Cultural and Archaeological Corroboration. Ancient Near Eastern texts and archaeology (such as marriage contracts from the Nuzi tablets) depict structured marital relationships, aligning with Genesis’ portrayal of covenant union. These external documents help confirm the historical context in which Scripture presents romantic love and the institution of marriage.

2. Scriptural Consistency and Reliability. Manuscript evidence, including fragments and codices from the Dead Sea Scrolls for Old Testament texts, exhibit consistency in passages celebrating marital love (e.g., Song of Solomon). This continuity supports the historical trustworthiness of biblical teachings on eros within marriage.

3. Alignment with a Designed Purpose. In the broader context of creation, scientific investigations into human brain chemistry (such as the neurochemical bonding that occurs between spouses) subtly echo God’s design for a complete union between husband and wife. While scientific studies do not replace Scripture, they point toward the reality that intimacy is part of an intelligently crafted design.

4. Philosophical and Ethical Perspectives. The moral code in Scripture regarding eros love aligns with a life that glorifies God and invests in meaningful, covenantal relationships. Throughout history, distortions of erotically driven behavior have frequently led to social and personal harm, reinforcing the biblical view that channeling such strong desires into a covenant of marriage promotes personal well-being and social stability.

Conclusion of the Entry

Eros love, while not explicitly named as “eros” in the Greek New Testament, is thoroughly portrayed by Scripture as a divinely ordained, passionate love within the marital covenant. It complements other forms of love (agape, phileo, storge) and is anchored in the created order, affirmed by the poetic beauty of the Song of Solomon, and guided by numerous New Testament injunctions to honor and cherish one’s spouse. Properly expressed, eros love becomes a powerful demonstration of God’s design for intimacy, reflecting His overarching plan for humanity’s good and His glory.