Two Kinds of Zeal
The Rev. Dr. Ray Silverman
T
he subject of zeal (also translated “jealousy” from the Latin word
“zelotypia”) refers to an emotion that comes over us when we feel that
something precious is being threatened.
This emotion can be either a noble one (defending what is sacred) or an
ignoble one (prompted by our lower nature). Either way, whether inwardly
noble or ignoble, the outward appearance is often indistinguishable.
In the very first commandment, the Lord describes Himself as being a
“jealous God.” (Exodus 20:5) In this case, and in every other case, when the
word “zealous” or “jealous” is used to describe the Lord, it always refers to a
desire to protect and defend that which is sacred. Indeed, it can even be called
“possessive” in the best sense, for we are all children of God, and each of us is
a sacred “possession” that the Lord wants to defend and protect.
This kind of protective love has nothing to do with what we normally
associate with jealousy, as, for example, when a person becomes possessive to
the point of being controlling. Similarly, it is not the kind of jealousy that is
envious of another person’s wealth, or jealous of someone’s musical aptitude,
athletic prowess, or speaking ability. As Paul puts it, “Love is not jealous or
boastful or proud.” (I Corinthians 13:4)
Jealousy and envy, along with the bitterness and resentment associated
with those emotions, show up when we are unable to feel the joy of others
as joy in ourselves. (Divine Love and Wisdom 49) In other words, because of
our extreme focus on ourselves, we find it difficult to be genuinely happy for
others. For example, if we hear about someone getting promoted, or getting
a raise, instead of thinking, I am really happy for this person, we think, “Why
don’t I get promoted? How come I didn’t get a raise? I deserve a break, too.”
This form of jealousy, so filled with envy, is also called covetousness, and
is the focus of the final commandment: “You shall not covet your neighbor’s
house, your neighbor’s wife, manservant, maidservant, ox, donkey or anything
that is your neighbor’s.” (Exodus 20:17) As Jesus said, “Take heed and beware
of covetousness.” (Luke 12:15)
The passages which follow deal with both types of jealousy: the heavenly
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