Bible Dictionary
Jealousy
Jealousy may describe sinful suspicion or envy, but it can also mean ardent concern for another’s honor or for faithfulness to God. Scripture presents God’s jealousy as His rightful demand for exclusive devotion and condemns selfish human jealousy.
Biblical Usage
God’s jealousy represents His claim to Israel’s exclusive devotion. Human jealousy may be commendable when directed toward God’s honor but sinful when expressed as envy, rivalry, or selfish passion. The law of jealousy addressed a husband’s suspicion of his wife’s infidelity.
Scripture References