Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for a deeper grasp of scripture and its cultural context. The word ζέω (zeo) is significant in the New Testament and ancient Greek literature. It conveys both literal and metaphorical meanings related to fervor and passion, providing insights into both theological interpretation and the socio-cultural mindset of the ancient world.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ζέω, followed by its transliteration zeo [zeh-oh].
• Etymology root words and their meanings: Derived from the root word ζέω, meaning “to boil” or “to be hot.”
• The part of speech: Verb.
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Primary Meanings

• To boil, to be hot.
• To be fervent or zealous, metaphorically indicating intense enthusiasm or passion.

Similar Words: ζεστός (zestos) [zes-tos], meaning “hot” or “boiling,” and θερμαίνω (thermaino) [ther-my-no], meaning “to warm up” or “to heat.” While zestos is more about the physical temperature, thermaino focuses on the act of heating, and zeo often carries a metaphorical sense of emotional or spiritual fervency.

Further Insights: The verb ζέω (zeo) appears in the New Testament in contexts suggesting emotional or spiritual intensity. It is used to describe a fervent spirit or zeal. In morphological terms, it is a present active indicative verb, denoting a continuous or repeated action. The declension chart for zeo is as follows:

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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Defines ζέω as “to be hot,” both in a literal sense (of boiling water) and metaphorically (of spiritual fervor or zeal).

Thayer’s Lexicon: Notes that ζέω is primarily used metaphorically in the New Testament, implying to be fervent in spirit.

Vines Expository Dictionary: Suggests that ζέω represents an inward burning or zeal, particularly in reference to Romans 12:11.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Details its classical usage primarily in the literal sense of boiling or being hot, with some extension into emotional contexts.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists ζέω as being “hot” or “to boil” with metaphorical implications for enthusiasm or passion.

Related Scripture References

• Romans 12:11: “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor [ζέοντες], serving the Lord.”
• Acts 18:25: “He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor [ζέων].”
• Revelation 3:15: “I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot [ζεστός].”

Classical Usage

Summary of ζέω (G2204)

The Greek word ζέω (zeo) carries meanings ranging from a literal boiling of water to metaphorical applications describing spiritual fervor and zeal. It plays a notable role in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature, symbolizing intensity, passion, and spiritual zeal. Understanding its usage helps in interpreting passages where it is employed to describe both physical states and profound emotional or spiritual experiences.

Did You Know?

The word ζέω (zeo) has its roots in ancient Greek literature but has also influenced modern language, especially in terms like “zealous,” reflecting the deep cultural and linguistic impact of Greek terminology on Western thought and language.