Joseph Weiler discusses absence of romantic love in the Bible

During a conference at the Meeting in Rimini, Joseph Weiler, a professor at New York University and senior fellow at Harvard, argued that the Bible contains no true stories of romantic love comparable to Western literature. Speaking alongside theology professor Stefano Alberto, Weiler examined various Old Testament figures to support his claim.

Weiler noted that the biblical accounts of famous couples, such as Adam and Eve, Abraham and Sarah, and Isaac and Rebecca, lack descriptions of romantic affection. He highlighted instances of betrayal, violence, and complex relationships involving figures like David, Samson, and Jacob. Weiler concluded that the biblical message suggests true, enduring love is found exclusively in the relationship between humanity and God.