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Introduction
Understanding Greek words in biblical studies is crucial for grasping the nuances and cultural significance embedded in the New Testament. The Greek word Ζηλωτής (Zēlōtēs) is particularly significant as it refers to a person characterized by intense zeal or enthusiasm, especially in a religious or political context. This term is closely associated with the Zealots, a Jewish sect known for their passionate opposition to Roman rule and their dedication to the Law of Moses. The word’s connotation of fervor and zeal helps illuminate the socio-political dynamics of the New Testament era and the fervent mindset of certain groups and individuals.
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); follows the first declension pattern in Greek grammar.
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Primary Meanings
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- Zealot: A person with intense zeal or fervor, especially in a religious or political context.
- Enthusiast: One who is ardently devoted to a cause or ideal.
- Partisan: A fervent adherent or supporter of a particular cause, group, or leader.
Similar Words: ζηλωτής (zēlōtēs) is related to ζηλόω (zēloō), meaning “to be zealous” or “to strive for.” While zēlōtēs describes someone who embodies zeal, zēloō refers to the action of displaying or feeling zeal. Both words share the same root but differ in their grammatical usage, with one being a noun and the other a verb.
Further Insights: Ζηλωτής is a masculine noun that adheres to the first declension in Greek. It is often used to describe someone who is fervent and passionate, especially about religious or political ideologies. The term is well-known for its association with a Jewish sect in the first century that was fervently opposed to Roman occupation. This context underscores both its historical and theological significance.
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Lexicon Insights
BDAG: Ζηλωτής is identified as a noun meaning “zealot” and is primarily used to describe individuals who are fervently devoted to a cause, especially religious or political. It is notably linked to Simon the Zealot in the New Testament and the Jewish Zealots.
Thayers: Thayer’s Lexicon describes Ζηλωτής as “one who is zealous,” especially in relation to Jewish nationalist movements in the first century that aimed to expel Roman rule.
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Vines: Ζηλωτής is explained as a term describing someone who is passionate or zealous, often for religious causes. Vines points out its use in describing Simon the Zealot, one of Jesus’ twelve apostles.
LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon defines Ζηλωτής as “zealot,” with both positive and negative connotations—ranging from enthusiastic devotion to fanatical extremism.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s Concordance provides a concise definition of Ζηλωτής as one who is zealous, noting its connection to passionate commitment, often in a religious or political sense.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Josephus | “The Jewish War” | “The Zealots (ζηλωτής) were known for their fierce defense of the Jewish faith and revolt against the Romans.” |
| Plutarch | “Lives” | “He was a zealot (ζηλωτής) for the ancient laws of his country, opposing every form of change.” |
| Philo | “On the Embassy to Gaius” | “The zealots (ζηλωτής) of the Jewish tradition held firm to their ancestral customs and opposed all outsiders.” |
Summary of Ζηλωτής (G2208: Zēlōtēs)
The Greek word Ζηλωτής (Zēlōtēs) holds significant meaning in both biblical and historical contexts. It refers to individuals who are zealous, especially for religious or political causes, and is closely associated with the Jewish sect known as the Zealots. These individuals were noted for their passionate resistance against Roman rule and their commitment to the Jewish faith and customs. Understanding this term provides valuable insight into the socio-political tensions of first-century Judea and the fervent mindset that drove certain groups and individuals, including some of Jesus’ disciples.
Did You Know?
- The Zealots were one of the four major Jewish sects during the time of Jesus, known for their staunch opposition to Roman rule.
- Simon the Zealot, one of Jesus’ apostles, is named in the New Testament, highlighting the diverse backgrounds of Jesus’ followers.
- The word ζηλωτής has evolved to refer to any person who is overly enthusiastic or fanatical about a particular cause or belief.
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