### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ektenōs**, represented by `{{G1619}}`, is an adverb derived from ἐκτενής, meaning intently or **fervently**. This specific term is exceptionally rare in scripture, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**. Its singular use, however, gives it significant emphasis in its context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G1619}}` is in [[1 Peter 1:22]], which provides a rich context for its meaning. The verse commands believers to "love one another with a pure heart **fervently**". This command is presented as a consequence of having "purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren" [[1 Peter 1:22]]. Therefore, **fervently** describes the intensity and earnestness of the love that should exist between believers whose souls have been purified by the truth.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its immediate context clarify the nature of this fervent love:
* `{{G25}}` **agapáō** (to love): This is the verb that **ektenōs** modifies. It refers to a love that is social or moral, and the command is to enact this love **fervently**.
* `{{G2513}}` **katharós** (pure): This adjective describes the source of the fervent love—a **pure** heart. It signifies a love that is clean and unblemished by selfish motives.
* `{{G2588}}` **kardía** (heart): The love is to come from the **heart**, the center of a person's thoughts and feelings, indicating that this fervor is not an outward show but an internal reality.
* `{{G5360}}` **philadelphía** (love of the brethren): This specifies the context for the command. The fervent love is an expression of fraternal affection within the community of believers [[1 Peter 1:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1619}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful application.
* **A Consequence of Purification:** Fervent love is not the starting point but the result of a spiritual process. It follows the purification of the soul `{{G48}}` through obedience `{{G5218}}` to the truth `{{G225}}`, all empowered by the Spirit `{{G4151}}` [[1 Peter 1:22]].
* **The Quality of Christian Love:** The term defines the required standard for brotherly love. It is not to be passive or lukewarm but active, earnest, and intense. This love is to be **unfeigned** `{{G505}}`, originating from a sincere and pure internal state.
* **Love from the Heart:** The instruction to love **fervently** from a pure **heart** `{{G2588}}` emphasizes that this is a core spiritual discipline, involving the entirety of one's inner being, not just external actions.
### Summary
In summary, while **ektenōs** `{{G1619}}` appears only once, its placement is critical. It elevates the command to love from a simple instruction to a call for intense, heartfelt, and sincere affection among believers. It teaches that this **fervently** expressed love is the natural outcome for those who have been genuinely purified by God's truth, serving as a hallmark of a life transformed by the Spirit.
TRV