In Greek mythology, the origins of Love (Eros) are tied to different myths depending on the source.

1: Hesiod’s Theogony: Eros as a Primordial Force

One of the earliest accounts comes from Hesiod’s Theogony (circa 700 BCE). In this version, Eros is a primordial deity, meaning he existed before most of the gods. According to Hesiod, in the beginning, there was only Chaos, and from Chaos emerged:

• Gaia (Earth)
• Tartarus (the Underworld)
• Eros (Love/Desire)

Here, Eros is not just the god of romantic love but a cosmic force responsible for attraction, procreation, and the binding of elements in the universe. Love, in this sense, is a fundamental force of creation.

2: Orphic Tradition: Eros as Protogonos (First-Born)

In Orphic mythology, a more mystical tradition, Eros is called Phanes or Protogonos (“First-Born”). He hatches from a cosmic egg created by Chronos (Time) and Ananke (Necessity). Phanes is depicted as a radiant, androgynous being who brings the first gods into existence. He is often associated with the golden-winged creator of life, spreading love and desire throughout the cosmos.

3: Later Myths: Eros as Aphrodite’s Son

In later myths, especially from Hellenistic and Roman periods, Eros becomes the child of Aphrodite and either Ares (God of War) or Chaos. In these myths, he is portrayed as a mischievous young god who shoots arrows to inspire love or indifference. This is the Cupid-like Eros, popular in art and literature.

4: Philosophical Interpretation: Plato’s “Symposium”

In Plato’s Symposium, the philosopher Socrates recounts a myth where Eros is the child of Poros (Resource) and Penia (Poverty). This version represents Love as something in between wisdom and ignorance, always seeking fulfillment but never truly complete.

Finally

Greek mythology presents Love (Eros) as a fundamental force. A force, cosmic or personal that can be seen as something that binds the universe together, fuels desire, and shapes existence itself.