ζῆλος (zēlos)
zēlos
zeal
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 16 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun zēlos captures a powerful intensity of spirit that can manifest as either fervent devotion or bitter envy. In the New Testament, it describes an ardor so strong it drives action, whether for defending truth or guarding against rivalry. The sources note its frequent appearance in Romans and 2 Corinthians, where it reflects the passionate energy behind Paul’s ministry and his warnings against sinful divisions.
Its meaning shifts with context, mirroring the Hebrew qin’ah found in the Old Testament. When directed toward God or His truth, it is a holy zeal, as seen when Jesus drove merchants from the temple (John 2:17) or when Paul pursued his faith with fierce determination (Philippians 3:6). However, it also denotes a jealous rivalry that breeds disorder, which James identifies as incompatible with wisdom (James 3:14).
This dual nature highlights why translators must carefully consider the surrounding text. The word itself is neutral in force but moral in outcome; it becomes a virtue when it protects what is sacred and a vice when it stems from selfish competition. Its presence in Scripture reminds readers that passion is not inherently good or bad, but depends entirely on its object.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word zēlos describes a powerful intensity of spirit that can manifest in two very different directions. In some contexts, it reflects a holy fervor for God’s truth, as seen when Jesus cleared the temple or when Paul pursued his faith with fierce determination. This kind of zeal protects what is sacred and drives us to stand firmly for righteousness.
Yet this same energy can turn into bitter envy or selfish rivalry when it stems from pride. James warns that jealousy breeds confusion and disorder, showing that passion itself is not inherently good or bad. The difference lies in its object: when directed toward God and His people, it becomes a virtue; when focused on self, it leads to division.
As you read Scripture, notice how this word challenges us to examine our own motives. Are we driven by a desire to honor God, or by a need to compete with others? This question invites us to align our hearts with the pure zeal that honors Christ alone.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 16 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- zeal5×
- jealousy3×
- with jealousy2×
- jealousy,2×
- zeal,1×
- with [the] jealousy;1×
- in jealousy;1×
- fury1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ζῆλος6×
- ζῆλον3×
- ζῆλος,2×
- ζήλῳ·2×
- ζήλου2×
- ζῆλον,1×
Key Verses
-
John 2:17
His disciples remembered that it was written, “Zeal for your house will eat me up.”
This verse shows holy zeal as a protective force for God’s house, quoting Psalm 69 to describe Jesus’ passionate defense of worship.
-
Romans 10:2
For I testify about them that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge.
Paul highlights that zeal without knowledge is dangerous, showing how fervor must be guided by truth to be truly beneficial.
-
II Corinthians 7:11
For behold, this same thing, that you were grieved in a godly way, what earnest care it worked in you. Yes, what defense, indignation, fear, longing, zeal, and vindication! In everything you demonstrated yourselves to be pure in the matter.
Here Paul lists zeal alongside other godly emotions, demonstrating how righteous anger and concern for purity lead to spiritual growth.
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James 3:14
But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, don’t boast and don’t lie against the truth.
James contrasts bitter jealousy with wisdom, illustrating how selfish ambition corrupts the heart and disrupts community peace.