John 2:17 Meaning and Explanation
“And his disciples remembered that it was written, The zeal of thine house hath eaten me up.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Watching him, the disciples remember the psalm: the zeal of thine house hath eaten me up.
What Does John 2:17 Mean?
As they watch, the disciples recall Psalm 69 — the zeal of thine house hath eaten me up — a psalm of the righteous sufferer to which the New Testament returns again and again concerning Christ. Before their eyes the psalm is taking flesh: a man consumed by devotion to God's house.
To be eaten up by zeal is the shape of Jesus' whole life; love for his Father's honor will carry him at last to the cross, where the rest of that psalm verse comes true of him — the reproaches of them that reproached thee are fallen upon me (Rom. 15:3). The disciples' remembering teaches us how to read: Scripture interprets Jesus, and Jesus fulfills Scripture, each lighting up the other.
John 2:17 in the Original Language
zelos (ζῆλος), 'zeal' -- burning ardor; devotion that consumes like fire.
Frequently Asked Questions About John 2:17
What does John 2:17 mean?
Watching him, the disciples remember the psalm: the zeal of thine house hath eaten me up.