Word Study — Loved

Описание: Catholic G33k Bible Word Study

Today’s word is Loved,
from Deuteronomy, chapter four, verse thirty-seven.

The Hebrew word is ’Āhab.

In Hebrew, ’āhab means to love,
and it is used in many different ways throughout the Old Testament.

It describes the love of a parent for a child,
the love between husband and wife,
the love of neighbor and friend,
and even the deep friendship between souls.

But most importantly, ’āhab is used
to describe love for the Lord.

In Deuteronomy, love is never sentimental or emotional.
It is covenantal.

To love God is to be loyal to Him,
to cling to Him,
and to live in obedience to His covenant.

This kind of love mirrors the structure of ancient covenant treaties.
A great king would swear to “love” his vassal
by protecting him and securing his future.
The vassal, in return, would swear to “love” the king
through exclusive loyalty and faithful obedience.

Deuteronomy presents the Lord as the true King
who first declares His love for Israel.
He chooses them, blesses them, and remains faithful to them.

Israel, in turn, is commanded to love the Lord
with the whole heart,
the whole soul,
and the whole strength —
by keeping His commandments.

This reveals something essential about biblical love.
Love is not primarily about feelings.
It is about faithful commitment.

God loves first.
And our love is meant to answer His —
through trust, obedience, and perseverance.

Catholic takeaway:
Love is a covenant before it is an emotion.
To love God is to choose Him —
again and again —
with your whole life.