Considered Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI's (or Papa Benny as I like to call him) Encyclical, Deus Caritas Est (translated from the Latin "God is love") is an inspiring work about love. As many English speakers know, the word "love" has multiple definitions. What exactly is meant by the word "love?" And how does this relate to God and humanity? In Benedict's encyclical, he describes how the words "agape" and "eros" differ as to how they are translated into English as "love." A "descending, oblative love-agape-would be typically Christian (pg. 24)," Benedict explains. While the word "eros," is considered to be "ascending, possessive, or covetous love...(pg. 24)." Despite the many ways we can translate the word "love," they exist as "a single reality, but with different dimensions... (pg. 27)."

Jesus' death on the Cross is considered an act of love. I am enamored as to how Benedict explains Jesus' death on the Cross as "this is love in its most radical form (pg. 35)."

Papa Benny goes on to explain many more subjects related to love, especially with regards to "loving our neighbor." How are we supposed to love our neighbor if we dislike him/her? Benedict sees loving God and loving our neighbor as one united act: "in the least of the brethren we find Jesus himself, and in Jesus we find God (pg. 40)." How can the Church provide love for those who are suffering?

Benedict's encyclical is theologically, biblically, and anthropologically deep. Yet unlike many of his very mature works, this one is written for all to comprehend and contemplate. Well worth it, especially Catholics, other Christians, and non-religious alike.