Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for grasping the full depth of the Scriptures and ancient Greek culture. The word ζηλόω (zēloō) is significant because it encapsulates the concepts of jealousy, envy, and zealous pursuit, all of which are frequently referenced in both New Testament writings and classical Greek literature. Knowing the various nuances of ζηλόω helps in interpreting key Biblical passages and understanding the emotional and social dynamics of ancient Greek society.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ζηλόω, transliterated as zēloō [zay-lo-oh].
• Etymology root words and their meanings: Derived from ζῆλος (zēlos), meaning “zeal,” “jealousy,” or “ardor,” which in turn comes from ζέω (zeō), “to boil” or “to be hot.”
• The part of speech: Verb. Present active indicative or subjunctive, used to express an action or state of being.
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Primary Meanings

• To be zealous, to strive after, to be fervent.
• To desire earnestly, to show affection or interest in.
• To be envious or jealous.

Similar Words: Ζηλόω (zēloō) is closely related to ζῆλος (zēlos) [zay-los], which is the noun form meaning “zeal” or “jealousy.” While ζῆλος refers to the state or feeling, ζηλόω refers to the action or expression of that feeling, such as desiring or striving. Another related word is φθονέω (phthoneō) [ftho-ne-oh], which specifically means “to envy” or “to bear ill-will,” often implying a negative or destructive form of jealousy.

Further Insights: As a verb, ζηλόω (zēloō) has several grammatical forms depending on the tense, voice, and mood in Greek. Its usage can range from a positive sense of being zealous for good to a negative sense of jealousy or envy. Below is a simplified conjugation chart for ζηλόω in the present tense:

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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Defines ζηλόω as “to be deeply committed to something, with the implication of accompanying desire—‘to be earnestly concerned about, to be deeply committed to, to court.” It is noted for its dual implication of both positive enthusiasm and negative jealousy.

Thayer’s Lexicon: Explains ζηλόω as “to burn with zeal” or “to desire earnestly,” referring to both commendable zeal and corrupt jealousy. Thayer also distinguishes between its usage in secular and Biblical contexts.

Vines Expository Dictionary: Emphasizes the dual nature of ζηλόω, highlighting its Biblical usage as both a godly desire and a sinful form of jealousy or rivalry.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Notes ζηλόω in various classical contexts, where it means “to seek eagerly, to be jealous of” or “to emulate.” The word is frequently used in philosophical texts to discuss virtuous versus harmful zeal.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists ζηλόω as occurring when “to have warmth of feeling for or against,” meaning to covet, be jealous over, or envy. Strong’s notes its frequent use in both positive and negative contexts.

Related Scripture References

• 1 Corinthians 12:31: “But earnestly desire [ζηλοῦτε] the best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way.”
• James 4:2: “You lust and do not have. You murder and covet [ζηλοῦτε] and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet you do not have because you do not ask.”
• Galatians 4:17: “They zealously court [ζηλοῦσιν] you, but for no good; yes, they want to exclude you, that you may be zealous [ζηλοῦσθε] for them.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ζηλόω (G2206)

The Greek word ζηλόω (zēloō) is a multifaceted verb that conveys both positive and negative aspects of zeal, desire, and jealousy. It ranges from earnest striving and devotion to envious rivalry and contention. Its usage in the New Testament and classical Greek literature illustrates the emotional and moral complexities of human behavior and divine qualities, serving as a lens to interpret the depth of spiritual commitment or conflict.

Did You Know?

The word ζηλόω (zēloō) is the origin of the English words “zealous” and “jealous,” both of which derive from the same Greek root but carry different connotations. This duality reflects the richness of ancient Greek, where one word could hold both positive and negative meanings depending on its context.