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THE CORROSIVE NATURE OF JEALOUSY 

I. Introduction 

What you don't know can cause harm to many, including yourself. Jealousy is one of the things that destroy lives of people, even the born again Christian.

That is why it is important to study this subject with an open heart, so that we can identify if we are among jealous people or victims of jealousy.

I. 1. Definition

Jealousy is a multifaceted and often misunderstood emotion.

In the Bible, jealousy is portrayed as both a human emotion and a divine attribute, with distinct connotations depending on its context and motivation.

The word for jealousy is "קִנְאָה" (kin'ah) in Hebrew. This term encompasses a range of emotions from envy to zeal, reflecting both the negative and positive nature of jealousy. 

I. 1.1. Jealousy (kin'ah) is depicted as a sinful and destructive force, rooted in selfishness, insecurity, and pride. It is associated with envy, bitterness, and resentment, leading to strife, conflict, and even violence among individuals and communities. 

I. 1. 2. Jealousy (kin'ah) is not exclusively negative in the Bible. It is also used to describe God's jealousy, which is protective zeal for His people, loyalty and devotion for His covenant. God's jealousy is a holy and righteous jealousy, motivated by a desire for exclusive worship and obedience from his chosen people.

For example, in Exodus 34:14, God declares, "Do not worship any other god, for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God." Here, the word קַנָּא (kan-na) is a related form, emphasizing God's passionate commitment to His relationship with Israel.

I. 2. Manifestations of (negative) Jealousy

I. 2.1. External manifestation 

Jealousy manifests in diverse ways, depending on individual temperament, circumstances, and cultural influences. It can manifest as possessiveness, suspicion, resentment, or competitiveness, leading to behaviors such as controlling behavior, passive-aggressive tactics, or attempts to sabotage others' success.

I. 2. 2. Internal manifestation 

Jealousy may also manifest internally as feelings of insecurity, inferiority, or self-doubt, affecting your self-esteem and emotional well-being. 

Often triggered by comparisons with others or the fear of being replaced or abandoned. 

I. 3. Distinguishing Between Jealousy and Zeal

In Greek, the word for jealousy is "ζήλος" (zēlos). This term, which can also be translated as zeal or ardor, conveys a range of emotions from passionate enthusiasm to envy. 

The dual meaning of (zēlos) in Greek highlights the fine line between constructive zeal and destructive jealousy. 

I. 3. 1. Constructive zeal involves passionate commitment to a cause or belief, driven by positive intentions and a desire for good outcomes (John 2:17). 

I. 3. 2. Destructive jealousy, on the other hand, stems from envy and insecurity, often leading to negative actions and emotions (Acts 13:45). 

I. 4. Conclusion

The Hebrew term קִנְאָה (kin'ah) and the Greek term ζήλος (zēlos) encapsulates both the positive and negative dimensions of jealousy and zeal as portrayed in the bible. By examining the contexts in which this word is used, we can discern the fine line between righteous passion and destructive envy. 

In the book of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, jealousy is depicted as a destructive and foolish emotion that leads to folly and ruin. 

Question: Are you a jealous person or a victim of jealousy? 

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Prophet Holly Van Usele