Cupid's VII Arrows
In today’s culture, the word “love” is overused. This often diminishes the power of the word, as we say “I love you,” to friends, parents, and significant others. The common use of the word to describe a large array of feelings within different relationships has left the word without meaning. To better gain a sense of the word we should seek the sacred knowledge of the ancient greeks. According to them, there was a baby-like god that shot two arrows unto his victims. All arrows had pairs. His targets were notorious for immediately falling in love with whoever received the other pair. While today he is known as Cupid, he was formerly known as Eros, the god of love. In his quiver which he carried everywhere, he always carried seven types of arrows, all with their respective pairs. Though all similar in shape, their powers were radically different.
The first arrow was his signature weapon, called Eros for his namesake, it’s purpose is to drive it’s victims madly in love. It inflames them with untold sexual desire that usually led them to dangerous paths. Many relationships usually begin with the wound of Eros. Though our current society strives to be struck with the arrow of “madly in love” we should learn from the Greeks and be wary of such insanity that it provokes.
The second arrow was called Philia, or love of the mind. It represents a sincere platonic love. It is the love that’s reciprocated amongst two close friends or brothers, the admiration of the other’s personality and virtues. Such arrow was highly cherished in ancient Greece, we should follow suit in our society and aim to be struck by this arrow more often.
Ludus was the most amusing of the arrows. It represents the flirtatious or teasing part of love. Its effects include dancing and laughter and are mostly childlike and naive. Our current society is struck with such arrow most often when two individuals flirt merely to have fun without looking for anything serious.
Pragma was the arrow of constantly enduring love. It takes time to achieve its full effect and is usually only visible with older couples, such as grandparents.
The deepest wound was caused by Agape, the arrow of selfless love. Symptoms include always giving to others, whilst expecting nothing in return. We direly need more Agape people in our society.
The sixth arrow was Philutia or the love of self. It’s for those who take all and give nothing. This arrow leads to narcissism and seeks only fame and wealth in life. Though some do achieve their dreams, many fail miserably. We should be wary of this arrow and limit our exposure to those inflicted for the toxicity that can corrupt us too.
The final arrow is Storge. It is the love that parents feel towards their children. It is a protecting love that forgives and sacrifices everything. Such affection is the most precious of all.
While that is a full list of Eros’ arrows, it is important to note that his accuracy might fail, ending up in a situation where any of these types of love remain one-sided. However, as long as you remain close to the other target, Eros will make sure he does not miss a second time.
Understanding love is vital in today’s culture where people often confuse the types of love they experience. By fostering this knowledge we grasp a better understanding of our collective feelings, creating a happier environment filled with all types of love. Happy Valentines!