A single-minded desire, characterised by enthusiasm and devotion. In Scripture it is often directed towards God, but God is also credited with zeal for his people and for the honour of his name. Misdirected or inappropriate zeal can degenerate into fanaticism.

1 Kings 19:9-10

Zeal for God

See also

Numbers 25:1-13
1 Kings 19:13-14
2 Kings 10:15-28
Proverbs 23:17
Psalms 69:7-9

Zeal for God's house

See also

John 2:13-17
Romans 12:11

Zeal for God's service

See also

Nehemiah 3:20
2 Corinthians 8:16-22
Acts 21:20

Zeal for God's law

See also

Psalms 119:137-144
2 Samuel 21:2

Zeal for the nation

Isaiah 42:13

God's zeal

See also

Manifested in wrath against sin

Numbers 25:10-11
Deuteronomy 29:18-21
Isaiah 59:12-19
Ezekiel 5:8-13; 36:5-7; 38:18-23
Isaiah 26:11

See also

Manifested in concern for his people

2 Kings 19:29-31
Isaiah 9:1-7; 63:15
Ezekiel 39:25

pp Isa 37:30-32

Proverbs 19:2

Misdirected zeal

See also

Acts 21:40-22:5
Romans 10:1-4
1 Corinthians 13:3
Galatians 1:13-14; 4:17-18
Philippians 3:6
Acts 1:13

Zeal for national identity: the Zealots

See also

Matthew 10:2-4

See also

pp Mk 3:16-19

pp Lk 6:14-16

1185 God, zeal of
5109 Paul, apostle
5375 law
5832 desire
5841 ecstasy
5848 exaggeration
7468 temple, rebuilding
8207 commitment
8223 dedication
8240 ethics
8248 faithfulness