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Introduction
Understanding Greek words in biblical studies provides insight into the cultural, religious, and philosophical nuances of the New Testament era. The Greek word ζηλωτής (zēlōtēs) is particularly significant as it encapsulates ideas of zeal, passion, and fervor. This term is notably linked to the socio-political movement in ancient Judaism known as the Zealots, who were fervently committed to the Law of Moses and opposed Roman occupation. Exploring this term helps in understanding the underlying tensions in first-century Judea and how zeal can manifest in both positive and negative contexts.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ζηλωτής, transliterated as zēlōtēs, pronounced [dzay-lo-TACE].
- Etymology: Derived from the verb ζηλόω (zēloō), which means “to be zealous” or “to strive after.”
- Part of Speech: Noun (masculine); it belongs to the first declension in Greek grammar.
- A placeholder for “The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.”
Primary Meanings
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- Zealot: A person with intense enthusiasm or fervor, especially for a cause or belief.
- Follower or adherent: One who follows a cause or leader with great passion.
- Imitator or emulator: Someone who seeks to emulate or follow closely in action or belief.
Similar Words: ζηλόω (zēloō), meaning “to be zealous” or “to covet,” is closely related. While zēlōtēs refers to a person characterized by zeal, zēloō describes the act of showing zeal or intense desire.
Further Insights: ζηλωτής is a masculine noun and follows the first declension pattern in Greek grammar. The term appears in various historical and cultural contexts, emphasizing a person’s fervent pursuit or passionate adherence to a cause or ideal. Unlike many other Greek terms, zēlōtēs has a strongly nuanced implication that can vary from commendable enthusiasm to destructive fanaticism.
Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek: Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.
Lexicon Insights
BDAG: The term ζηλωτής is defined as one who is zealous, particularly in a religious or political sense. It is often used to describe members of a Jewish sect known for their passionate resistance against Roman rule.
Thayers: ζηλωτής is translated as an “adherent, zealot,” and specifically points out its association with those who were ardent adherents of the Mosaic law and were sometimes engaged in violent opposition to Roman occupation.
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Vines: This lexicon identifies ζηλωτής as a term describing a person of ardent zeal, particularly in the context of the New Testament, referring to Simon the Zealot, one of the twelve apostles.
LSJ: The Greek-English Lexicon by Liddell, Scott, and Jones notes ζηλωτής as meaning “zealot” in both positive and negative connotations—either as a fervent follower or an extremist.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: The term ζηλωτής is noted for its association with zeal and fervency, specifically linked with a religious or political stance.
Related Scripture References
- Luke 6:15: “Matthew and Thomas; James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon who was called the Zealot (ζηλωτής).”
- Acts 1:13: “When they had entered the city, they went up to the upper room where they were staying; that is, Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon the Zealot (ζηλωτής), and Judas the son of James.”
- Acts 21:20: “And when they heard it, they began glorifying God; and they said to him, ‘You see, brother, how many thousands there are among the Jews of those who have believed, and they are all zealous (ζηλωτής) for the Law.'”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | “Phaedrus” | “For he was a zealot (ζηλωτής) in philosophy.” |
| Herodotus | “Histories” | “Those who were zealots (ζηλωτής) of the oracle’s words followed fervently.” |
| Josephus | “Antiquities of the Jews” | “The Zealots (ζηλωτής) stirred the people to revolt against Roman rule.” |
Summary of ζηλωτής (G2207: zēlōtēs)
The Greek word ζηλωτής (zēlōtēs) provides valuable insight into the fervent, passionate aspects of ancient and biblical cultures. This term is primarily used to denote individuals characterized by intense zeal or passion, often in a religious or political context. From Simon the Zealot in the New Testament to the Zealots who opposed Roman rule, this term embodies both noble enthusiasm and potential fanaticism, making it crucial for understanding the motivations and dynamics in the biblical era.
Did You Know?
- The Zealots were one of the four major Jewish sects during the time of Jesus, along with the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Essenes.
- The name “Simon the Zealot” in the New Testament could indicate either a former member of the Zealot party or his fervent zeal for the Jewish faith.
- The word ζηλωτής has evolved in modern languages to imply someone who is overly passionate or fanatical about a cause, highlighting its lasting impact on language and culture.
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