Biblical Word Etymology
The Etymology of “Charity”
The biblical word “Charity” traces back to Latin / Greek (caritas (Latin); agape (ἀγάπη, Greek)), where it meant “Love, affection, benevolence; the highest form of love (agape); Christian love of neighbor”. Across 3eras it evolved into the modern sense: “The voluntary giving of help or money to those in need; Christian love or agape; benevolence toward others”.
How the Meaning Evolved
Ancient Latin/Greek
Latin / Greekcaritas (Latin); agape (ἀγάπη, Greek)Love, affection, benevolence; the highest form of love (agape); Christian love of neighbor
Latin caritas from carus (dear, beloved). Greek agape (1 Corinthians 13:4-8) is selfless, sacrificial love. Paul calls charity the greatest of all virtues in 1 Corinthians 13.
Medieval Latin / Church
LatincaritasOne of the three theological virtues (charity, faith, hope); the divine love of God extended toward all people; almsgiving and works of mercy
Medieval theology elevated caritas as the supreme virtue that animates all other virtues. Charity included both love of God and love of neighbor, expressed through almsgiving.
Modern English
EnglishcharityThe voluntary giving of help or money to those in need; Christian love or agape; benevolence toward others
Via Old French from Latin caritas. In modern usage emphasizes practical benevolence and almsgiving; in theology, emphasizes the virtue of selfless Christian love.