Bible Dictionary
EMULATION
A word that can mean jealousy or envy in a sinful sense, but can also describe stirring others to earnest zeal. Scripture condemns jealousy while commending godly zeal.
Definition
Emulation may refer either to jealousy and envy or to earnest zeal stirred by another’s example. In the first sense it is sinful rivalry; in the second, it describes an attempt to provoke earnestness or zeal.
Biblical Usage
In Galatians 5:20, “emulation” translates a word used negatively among the works of the flesh, meaning the stirring of jealousy or envy. In Romans 11:14, it describes Paul’s hope of provoking his fellow Israelites to zeal, a good and purposeful use.
Historical Background
The King James Version uses “emulation” where the Revised Version generally uses “jealousy.” The distinction depends on whether the result serves the flesh by exciting envy or serves the Spirit by encouraging earnestness.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>em-u-la'-shun (zelos, parazeloo):</p><p>Occurs twice in the New Testament, once in a bad sense and once in a good sense.</p><p>(1) In Ga 5:20 the King James Version it is the translation of zelos ("zeal," "earnestness," "enthusiasm") where it is classed among "the works of the flesh" and signifies the stirring up of jealousy or envy in others, because of what we are, or have, or profess. The Greek word is used in this sense in Ac 13:45; Ro 13:13; 1Co 3:3; Jas 3:14,16; 2Co 12:20; Ga 5:20; the Revised Version (British and American) translated by "jealousy." It denotes a work of the flesh or lower nature, which Christians often fail sufficiently to guard against; it pleases "the flesh" to excite such a feeling in others.</p><p>(2) In Ro 11:14 the King James Version "emulation" is the translation of parazeloo ("to make one zealous or jealous"), and is there used in a good sense. "If by any means I may provoke to emulation (the Revised Version (British and American) jealousy) them that are my flesh" (compare Ro 10:19, quoted from De 32:21). It is well to "provoke to emulation" in this sense, those who are slow or indifferent, by the example of earnestness and zeal on our part. This is not to please "the flesh," but to serve "the Spirit."</p><p>W. L. Walker</p>