The Prolegomena of Agapology -- an Emergent World Journal

The Concept of Care (Epimeleia) in Comparison to the Heideggerian Concept of Care (Sorge).  Concept of Care (Epimeleia) Definition: Epimeleia (ἐπιμέλεια) is a Greek term that refers to a deliberate, thoughtful, and active form of care or attention. It encompasses concern, responsibility, and the act of tending to something or someone with intentionality. It is often used to describe both personal care (self-care) and care for others, and it includes aspects of both physical and moral responsibility . Epimeleia can be understood in two primary dimensions: 1. Care for Oneself: This includes epimeleia heautou (care of oneself), which in Greek philosophy (particularly in Plato and Aristotle) refers to the responsibility of maintaining one's own well-being, both physically and spiritually. It involves wisdom, self-reflection, and ethical development, emphasizing the cultivation of virtues like temperance and courage. 2. Care for Others: This extends to the broader, more ...

 taken from Chapter 5 of The Mystical Theology of the Eastern Church ( St Vladimir's Seminary Press: Crestwood, New York, 1976 - pp. 91-113. ) Our Identity as Relational Beings It is often forgotten that the creation of the world is not a truth of a philosophical order, but rather an article of faith. Ancient philosophy knows nothing of creation in the absolute sense of the word; the demiurge of Plato is not a creator-God, but rather an ordainer of the universe, a craftsman, a fashioner of the kosmos, a word itself implying order and comeliness. 'Being' in Hellenistic thought signifies existence in some ordered manner, the possession of an essence . The demiurge creates substances giving form to amorphous matter which exists eternally and independently of himself as a chaotic and unqualifiable mass, capable of receiving every possible form and quality. In itself, matter is thus non-being, a pure potentiality of being , of becoming something; it is [the  Relative Non-Being]...

According to the Christian faith “the greatest virtue is love” (1 Cor 13.13). Love is the “fulfilling of the law” of God (Rom 13.10). For God Himself is Love. Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God, and he who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God; for God is love. In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent His only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the expiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No man has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and His love is perfected in us. By this we know that we abide in Him and He in us, because He has given us of His own Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent His Son as the Savior of the World. Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. ...

Unknown Source Well, its more a Hierarchy than shades.  Hierarchy of Love 1. Theophila : Love for God, characterized by a deep, spiritual connection and devotion. 2. Self-Transcendent Love : Love that transcends personal desires and ego, connecting with something greater and fostering a sense of unity and interconnectedness. 3. Agape : Selfless, unconditional love that seeks the well-being of others without expecting anything in return. 4.   Altruism : Selfless concern for the well-being of others, often leading to acts of kindness and generosity. 5. Compassion : A deep awareness of and sympathy for another’s suffering, combined with a desire to alleviate it. 6.   Fidelity : Faithfulness and loyalty in relationships, often associated with commitment and trust. 7. Protectiveness : A strong desire to protect and care for someone, often seen in parental or close relationships. 8. Pragma : Practical or enduring love, often seen in long-term relationships where partners work t...

   “. . .as you love yourself” What does this mean to love neighbors as we love ourselves ?  Does this phrase insinuate a self-centered love?  No. Of course not! The phrase “ Love your neighbors as you love yourself ” emphasizes a love that is deeply rooted in selfless care and compassion . This love is not about self-indulgence but about recognizing the inherent value and dignity of every person -- including ourselves -- as created in the image of God. Here are some key points from this lesson: Practical Care: Loving oneself means taking care of one’s basic needs (e.g., eating when hungry, resting when tired). Similarly, loving your neighbor involves actively addressing their needs and ensuring their well-being. Self-Respect and Gratitude: One should love oneself by being faithful to God and grateful for the life given. This self-love is about recognizing one’s unique importance in the eyes of God and extending that same recognition to others. Moderation and Balan...

Applications of Agaposofia Agaposofia, rooted in selfless, unconditional love (agape), offers profound insights and practical tools for personal, communal, and societal transformation. Here are its key applications: Personal Relationships   Practice of Selfless Love: Agaposophy inspires individuals to embrace empathy, compassion, and understanding in interactions with family, friends, partners, and strangers. Fostering Meaningful Connections: By prioritizing unconditional love, individuals cultivate deeper, more authentic relationships, grounded in mutual respect and care.   Community Building   Supportive Environments: Agaposophy advocates for inclusive and uplifting community dynamics, especially through faith-based initiatives and grassroots efforts. Service to the Marginalized: It emphasizes volunteerism and community service, particularly aimed at supporting those most vulnerable in society. Conflict Resolution   Empathetic Approaches: Agaposophy encourages...