Life (Zoe)
ζωή (zōē)
Divine, eternal, abundant life — the quality of life that belongs to God.
Zōē is the Greek word for life, specifically the divine, eternal quality of life that belongs to God and is given to believers through Christ. It is not merely existence but vibrant, abundant, God-infused living.
"I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." — John 10:10 (KJV)
Key Verses
John 10:10
“I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”Read in context
John 17:3
“And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.”Read in context
Strong's Concordance
Strong's G2222 — Life (Zoe) (ζωή (zōē))
Browse the full lexicon entry and every KJV verse where ζωή (zōē) appears.
Open Strong's G2222Etymology and Original Meaning
Greek has two words for life: bios (physical, biological existence) and zōē (the vital, animating principle of life). In John's writings, zōē becomes a technical theological term for the divine life that belongs to God and is shared with believers. It is not duration added to existence but a new quality of existence altogether.
God as the Source of Life
Scripture consistently presents God as life's origin: 'In him was life; and the life was the light of men' (John 1:4). God breathed life into Adam (Genesis 2:7). The psalmist declares, 'With thee is the fountain of life' (Psalm 36:9). Life is not self-generating — it flows from the Creator to creation as a gift sustained moment by moment.
Eternal Life Defined
Jesus defined eternal life not as endless duration but as relational knowledge: 'This is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ' (John 17:3). Eternal life is knowing God — an intimate, transformative relationship that begins now and extends forever. It is the quality of God's own life shared with His children.
Abundant Life
Jesus promised life 'more abundantly' (John 10:10) — life overflowing, rich, purposeful, and full. This is not a promise of material prosperity but of spiritual richness: deep joy, lasting peace, meaningful relationships, purposeful service, and the presence of God. Abundant life is available now, not just in eternity — it is the present experience of walking with Christ.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does life mean in the Bible?
Life (zōē) in John's writings means the divine, eternal quality of life that comes from God. It is not merely biological existence but vibrant, abundant, God-infused living that begins with knowing Christ.
What is eternal life?
Jesus defined eternal life as knowing God and Jesus Christ (John 17:3). It is not merely living forever but sharing in God's own life — a relationship that transforms the present and continues eternally.
Which Bible verse uses the word "Life (Zoe)"?
John 10:10 — "I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly" (KJV). It also appears in John 14:6, John 17:3.
Why does the Greek word behind "Life (Zoe)" matter?
Greek has two words for life: bios (physical, biological existence) and zōē (the vital, animating principle of life). English uses one word, "Life (Zoe)", where the Greek ζωή (zōē) carries the fuller sense: divine, eternal, abundant life — the quality of life that belongs to god.
Related Words
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
Life (Zoe) (ζωή (zōē))
Divine, eternal, abundant life — the quality of life that belongs to God.
Strong's G2222 — Life (Zoe)
ζωή (zōē) • Divine, eternal, abundant life — the quality of life that belongs to God.
John 10:10 — Meaning & Devotional
Abundant Life
John 11:25 — Meaning & Devotional
Eternal Life
John 17:3 Commentary
In-depth study • Eternal Life & Knowledge of God
John 5:24 Commentary
In-depth study • Eternal Life
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