Topical Encyclopedia Jealousy, as depicted in the Bible, is a complex emotion that can manifest both positively and negatively. It is often portrayed through vivid imagery and narratives that illustrate its powerful influence on human behavior and relationships.Divine Jealousy In the Scriptures, God is described as a "jealous God," a term that underscores His desire for exclusive devotion from His people. This divine jealousy is not akin to human envy but is rooted in God's holiness and His covenant relationship with Israel. In Exodus 34:14 , it is written, "For you must not worship any other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God." Here, God's jealousy is an image of His rightful claim to the worship and loyalty of His people, reflecting His protective love and the seriousness of idolatry. Human Jealousy Human jealousy, on the other hand, is often depicted as a destructive force. It is an emotion that can lead to sin and strife, as seen in various biblical accounts. In the account of Cain and Abel, jealousy becomes a catalyst for the first murder. Genesis 4:5 states, "but He had no regard for Cain and his offering. So Cain became very angry, and his countenance fell." Cain's jealousy over God's favor toward Abel's offering leads to tragic consequences, illustrating how unchecked jealousy can corrupt the heart and result in violence. Jealousy in Relationships Jealousy also appears in the context of personal relationships, often causing division and conflict. The rivalry between Rachel and Leah, as described in Genesis 30, is fueled by jealousy over Jacob's affection and the bearing of children. Rachel's envy of Leah's fertility leads her to say to Jacob in Genesis 30:1 , "Give me children, or I will die!" This narrative highlights how jealousy can strain familial bonds and create discord. Jealousy and Wisdom Literature The wisdom literature of the Bible offers insights into the nature of jealousy and its effects. Proverbs 14:30 warns, "A tranquil heart is life to the body, but envy rots the bones." This proverb uses the imagery of physical decay to convey the corrosive impact of jealousy on one's well-being. Similarly, in the Song of Solomon 8:6 , love is described as "strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave." This powerful imagery underscores the intensity and consuming nature of jealousy, likening it to the inevitability of death. Jealousy in the New Testament In the New Testament, jealousy is often listed among the works of the flesh, contrasting with the fruits of the Spirit. Galatians 5:19-21 includes jealousy in a catalog of sinful behaviors, warning believers of its dangers: "The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy." This passage serves as a reminder of the moral and spiritual pitfalls associated with jealousy. Throughout the Bible, the imagery of jealousy serves as a powerful reminder of its dual nature—reflecting both the righteous zeal of God for His people and the destructive potential of human envy. The biblical portrayal of jealousy calls for discernment and self-examination, urging believers to align their emotions with the will and character of God. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 8:3,4And he put forth the form of an hand, and took me by a lock of my head; and the spirit lifted me up between the earth and the heaven, and brought me in the visions of God to Jerusalem, to the door of the inner gate that looks toward the north; where was the seat of the image of jealousy, which provokes to jealousy. Nave's Topical Index Library The Image of Jealousy Treatise x. On Jealousy and Envy. Concerning "Good," "Light," "Beautiful," "Desire," "Ecstasy ... Concerning Good, Light, Beauty, Love, Ecstasy, Jealousy, and that ... On the Second Command in the Decalogue A Jealous God The Division Between East and West At the Dedication of a Church The Neo-Kohlbruggians. Harmless Fires Resources What does the Bible mean when it refers to emulations? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about consumerism? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about brothers and sisters/siblings? | GotQuestions.org Jealousy: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Jealousy: Ephraimites, of Gideon Jealousy: General Scriptures Concerning Jealousy: Joseph's Brothers, of Joseph Jealousy: Law Concerning, when Husband is Jealous for his Wife Jealousy: Sectional, Between Israel and the Tribe of Judah Jealousy: The Brother of the Prodigal Son Related Terms Jealousy-offering (2 Occurrences) Meal-offering (120 Occurrences) |
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