Zelus

This article is about the Greek deity. For other uses, see Zelos. For the insect, see Zelus (genus).

In Greek mythology, Zelus or Zelos /ˈziːləs/ (Greek: Ζῆλος, Zēlos, literally "zeal") was the daimon son of Pallas and Styx.[1] Zelus and siblings Nike (Victory), Kratos (Strength) and Bia (Force) were winged enforcers who stood in attendance at Zeus' throne and formed part of his retinue.[2]

Zelus personifies dedication, emulation, eager rivalry, envy, jealousy, and zeal. The English word "zeal" is derived from his name.

Zelos may have also been identified with Agon, the personification of romantic jealousy, and was closely connected with Eris. His 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.

References

  1. ↑ Hesiod, Theogony 383–5.
  2. ↑ Hesiod, Theogony 386–7.
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