ζηλεύω (zēleuō)
zēleuō
to envy
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb zēleuō is a rare form of zēloō, appearing only once in the New Testament at Revelation 3:19. In this specific context, it conveys the idea of being zealous or showing intense fervor. The text encourages believers to be earnest and passionate in their spiritual lives, suggesting that genuine devotion requires active energy rather than passive indifference.
While its near-synonym zēloō can mean either envy or zeal depending on context, this particular form is linked more closely to the positive sense of zealous action. The source material notes it as a late and rare variant, indicating it was not a common word in everyday Greek speech but carried a specific weight of earnestness when used by John in his vision.
This single occurrence highlights how language evolves within biblical texts. By choosing this variant, the author emphasizes a state of being fully engaged and fervent. It serves as a reminder that faith is not static; it involves a dynamic, zealous commitment to truth and righteousness.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word translated here as "zealous" carries a sense of intense, burning passion. It is not about frantic activity or noisy performance, but rather a deep, inner fire that drives us toward what matters most. In Revelation 3:19, Jesus links this fervor directly to love and correction. He does not ask for cold duty, but for a heart that burns with genuine care for truth and righteousness.
When we feel the pull of indifference or spiritual sleepiness, this word reminds us that faith is alive. It calls us to wake up and engage fully with God’s love. This passion is not self-generated; it is a response to His chastening and His correction. We are invited to let His love fuel our devotion, turning quiet belief into active, earnest commitment.
Let this encouragement settle in your spirit. You do not need to manufacture this fire on your own. Instead, open your heart to the One who loves you enough to correct you. Allow that divine love to stir your soul, leading you naturally toward repentance and a renewed, vibrant walk with Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- do be jealous1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ζήλευε1×
Key Verses
-
Revelation of John 3:19
As many as I love, I reprove and chasten. Be zealous therefore, and repent.
This verse uniquely pairs the call to be zealous with the motivation of divine love and correction, showing that true spiritual fervor arises from being known and corrected by Christ.