from ζέω; boiled, i.e. (by implication) calid (figuratively, fervent):--hot.
Transliteration:zestós
Pronunciation:dzes-tos'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term ζεστός (zestós, `{{G2200}}`) carries the primary literal meaning of "boiled" or "hot," derived from the verb ζέω (zeō, `{{G2198}}`), which signifies "to boil," "to bubble up," or "to be hot." In its physical sense, it describes something that has reached a high temperature through heating, such as boiling water. However, its usage in the New Testament extends beyond this literal sense, taking on a profound figurative meaning. Zestós comes to represent a state of intense spiritual fervor, passionate devotion, or zealous commitment. It denotes an active, energetic, and unreserved engagement, contrasting sharply with apathy or indifference. The semantic range thus moves from a physical property of heat to an inner spiritual disposition characterized by warmth, enthusiasm, and active dedication to God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ζεστός (zestós, `{{G2200}}`) appears exclusively in the book of Revelation, specifically in the letter to the church in Laodicea:
* [[Revelation 3:15]] - "I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other!"
* [[Revelation 3:16]] - "So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth."
In this pivotal passage, Christ addresses the Laodicean church, condemning their spiritual state. The contrast presented is between being ψυχρός (psychros, `{{G5593}}`, "cold"), χλιαρός (chliaros, `{{G5513}}`, "lukewarm"), and ζεστός (zestós, `{{G2200}}`, "hot").
"Hot" (zestós) here symbolizes fervent faith, zealous commitment, and active devotion to God. It implies a vibrant, life-giving spiritual condition, akin to hot water used for healing, cleansing, or invigorating. Christ's desire for the Laodiceans to be "hot" signifies His expectation for their complete and passionate surrender to Him, demonstrating an active and fruitful spiritual life. This state of being "hot" is presented as the ideal, reflecting a heart fully engaged with the divine will and actively pursuing righteousness.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary root of ζεστός (zestós, `{{G2200}}`) is ζέω (zeō, `{{G2198}}`), meaning "to boil" or "to be fervent," which itself appears in passages like [[Romans 12:11]] ("fervent in spirit").
Antonyms crucial for understanding ζεστός in its biblical context are:
* ψυχρός (psychros, `{{G5593}}`): "cold," representing a state of spiritual deadness, outright rejection, or complete disinterest in Christ.
* χλιαρός (chliaros, `{{G5513}}`): "lukewarm," which is the state condemned in Laodicea. This signifies spiritual indifference, half-hearted commitment, or a mixture of worldly and spiritual pursuits, rendering one useless and even repulsive to God.
Other related concepts that convey spiritual fervor or zeal include:
* ζῆλος (zēlos, `{{G2205}}`): "zeal," "ardor," or "jealousy," often used positively for devotion to God.
* πνεῦμα (pneuma, `{{G4151}}`): "spirit," particularly when associated with the Holy Spirit's empowering presence, which often manifests as spiritual fervor ([[Romans 12:11]]).
* πίστις (pistis, `{{G4102}}`): "faith," especially when described as active, living, and demonstrating works ([[James 2:17-26]]).
* ἀγάπη (agapē, `{{G26}}`): "love," particularly the self-sacrificial and active love for God and neighbor, which fuels spiritual fervor.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ζεστός (zestós, `{{G2200}}`) is profound, encapsulating God's desire for wholehearted, passionate devotion from His people.
1. **Divine Expectation of Fervor:** Christ's wish for the Laodiceans to be "hot" reveals that God does not desire mere intellectual assent or perfunctory religious observance. He seeks a vibrant, active, and zealous faith that permeates every aspect of a believer's life. This "hotness" implies an unreserved commitment, a burning love for God, and an eager pursuit of His will.
2. **The Danger of Lukewarmness:** The condemnation of lukewarmness (χλιαρός, `{{G5513}}`) highlights its severe spiritual danger. It is worse than being "cold" in Christ's eyes because it represents a deceptive state of spiritual self-sufficiency and indifference. A "lukewarm" believer gives the appearance of religiosity without the substance of true devotion, becoming spiritually ineffective and ultimately repulsive to God. This state suggests a lack of discernment regarding one's true spiritual condition.
3. **Utility in God's Kingdom:** Just as hot water is useful for various purposes (e.g., purification, healing, or making a refreshing drink), a "hot" believer is useful in God's kingdom. Their zeal and passion enable them to serve effectively, witness boldly, and grow spiritually. Conversely, lukewarmness renders one useless and fit only to be "spit out."
4. **Connection to the Holy Spirit:** Spiritual "hotness" is often associated with the empowering presence and work of the Holy Spirit, who ignites believers with divine love and zeal ([[Acts 2:3-4]]). A lack of fervor can indicate quenching the Spirit or grieving Him.
5. **A Call to Repentance and Renewal:** The divine indictment against Laodicea serves as a timeless call for believers to examine their hearts, repent of spiritual apathy, and seek a renewed, fervent relationship with Christ, characterized by genuine zeal and active love.
### Summary
Ζεστός (zestós, `{{G2200}}`) literally means "hot" or "boiled," but in its sole biblical occurrences in [[Revelation 3:15-16]], it carries the profound figurative meaning of spiritual fervor, passionate devotion, and zealous commitment to Christ. Contrasted with "cold" (ψυχρός, `{{G5593}}`) and "lukewarm" (χλιαρός, `{{G5513}}`), "hot" represents the ideal state of a believer: one who is fully engaged, actively pursuing God's will, and demonstrating an unreserved love for Him. This term underscores God's desire for wholehearted spiritual vitality and warns against the perilous state of spiritual indifference, which He finds repugnant. Zestós serves as a powerful reminder of the call to a vibrant, active, and useful faith in the Kingdom of God.
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