ζηλωτής
zēlōtēs
zealot
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word ζηλωτής (zēlōtēs) is primarily defined as a zealot. This term suggests an individual who feels an intense emotional drive or passion for something, often characterized by a desire to fervently promote or protect it. The six occurrences of this word in the Bible indicate its limited yet significant usage, implying its importance in specific contexts. It is essential to note that the word's meaning is focused on the emotional aspect, rather than implying a neutral or objective attitude. The fact that ζηλωτής has a semantic domain related to Emotion & Attitude signifies that it is closely tied to an individual's strong emotional state. In the context of the Bible, this word may suggest passionate followers who are deeply committed to a particular cause or ideology, and who may not be hesitant to express their emotions through their actions.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
6 total occurrences across the text
They, when they heard it, glorified God. 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 for the law.
Acts 22:3“I am indeed a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, instructed according to the strict tradition of the law of our fathers, being zealous for God, even as you all are today.
1 Corinthians 14:12So also you, since you are zealous for spiritual gifts, seek that you may abound to the building up of the assembly.
Galatians 1:14I advanced in the Jews’ religion beyond many of my own age among my countrymen, being more exceedingly zealous for the traditions of my fathers.
Titus 2:14who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify for himself a people for his own possession, zealous for good works.
1 Peter 3:13Now who will harm you if you become imitators of that which is good?