CategoryDoctrine / Devotion and Fervor Term
Modern Equivalentfervent devotion; eager commitment.
KJV Word TypeNoun / adjective
DefinitionStrong eagerness, fervor, or devotion. In the KJV, zeal can describe godly devotion for the LORD or misguided religious intensity without knowledge.
Key Verses"The zeal of thine house hath eaten me up." (Psalm 69:9); "For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge." (Romans 10:2)
KJV Usage NoteZeal may be righteous when directed by truth and love, but dangerous when separated from knowledge or humility.
Common MisunderstandingIt does not always mean godly passion; Scripture also warns against zeal that lacks knowledge.
EtymologyFrom Greek zēlos, meaning zeal, jealousy, or fervor.