In Greek mythology, Zelus or Zelos was the daimon that personifies dedication, emulation, eager rivalry, envy, jealousy, and zeal. The English word "zeal" is derived from his name.

Family

Zelus was the son of Pallas (the Titan) and Styx (an Oceanid). His siblings were Nike (Victory), Kratos (Strength), and Bia (Force).

Mythology

Titanomachy

Zelus together with his siblings were winged enforcers who stood in attendance at Zeus' throne and formed part of his retinue.

Theogony

Bibliotheca

Other appearances

Zelus’ Roman name was Invidia, which, in Latin, meant "to look against in a hostile manner". Because of its relation to Zelus, his Roman form was sometimes associated with the seven deadly sins.

Works and Days

Cynegetica

Zelos may have also been identified with Agon, the personification of competition, and was closely connected with Eris. He was sometimes associated with Phthonus, the daimon of romantic jealousy.

Christianity

It is considered that later the Catholic Church adapted him to its doctrine (considering only its aspect related to religious fervor), providing Zelo with wings and replacing the lamp and the whip with a gospel and a flaming sword. According to the interpretatio graeca, he is also associated with the rider of the white horse, which represents conquest or glory.

Genealogical tree