The Difference Between agapē and elpis

Within the Greek of the Bible, agapē (ἀγάπη, G26) and elpis (ἐλπίς, G1680) are related but distinct concepts. agapē is most often rendered "charity", while elpis emphasizes "faith". Understanding the difference between these words illuminates the precise shade of meaning the original author intended.

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ἀγάπη vs ἐλπίς

agapē and elpis

ἀγάπη

love, i.e. affection or benevolence; specially (plural) a love-feast

G26

Exegetical Meaning

love, i.e. affection or benevolence; specially (plural) a love-feast | Etymology: from G25 (ἀγαπάω); | KJV: (feast of) charity(-ably), dear, love

Origin

ἀγαπάωto love (in a social or moral sense)

English Glosses

charitydearlove

Canon Usage

Pauline Epistles●

General Epistles●

Context Themes

God's Essential Nature
Redemptive Love in Action
Love as the Supreme Ethic

ἐλπίς

expectation (abstractly or concretely) or confidence

G1680

Exegetical Meaning

expectation (abstractly or concretely) or confidence | Etymology: from a primary (to anticipate, usually with pleasure); | KJV: faith, hope

Origin

Root form

English Glosses

faithhope

Canon Usage

No data

Context Themes

No clusters available