Jealousy is a deeply human emotion—sometimes it sneaks in quietly, and other times it takes over our thoughts, relationships, and peace. Whether it’s envy over someone else’s success, relationships, or blessings, jealousy can be harmful if left unchecked. Thankfully, the Bible doesn’t ignore this struggle. Instead, it offers honest insight and godly wisdom for overcoming jealousy and finding freedom through faith.
Jealousy in the Bible is addressed in both the Old and New Testaments, with powerful examples, warnings, and encouragements. God understands the emotions we face, and He offers truth that can heal hearts, correct our attitudes, and lead us to live in love and contentment.
Below are 15 meaningful Bible verses that shed light on jealousy, along with short explanations to help you understand the context and spiritual lesson behind each verse.
15 Bible Verses About Jealousy in the Bible
1. Proverbs 14:30
A heart at peace gives life to the body,
but envy rots the bones.
Explanation:
This verse highlights the internal damage jealousy can cause. While peace brings life and health, envy slowly eats away at us. It reminds us to guard our hearts and pursue inner peace instead of letting jealousy grow.
2. James 3:16
For where you have envy and selfish ambition,
there you find disorder and every evil practice.
Explanation:
James warns that jealousy opens the door to chaos and destructive behaviors. When envy rules our actions, it can tear apart relationships and communities. The verse calls us to choose humility and godly wisdom instead.
3. Galatians 5:26
Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.
Explanation:
Paul encourages believers to avoid pride and envy, which only cause division. Instead, he calls for unity and love in the body of Christ. This verse reminds us to celebrate others rather than compare ourselves to them.
4. Exodus 20:17
You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife,
or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.
Explanation:
As part of the Ten Commandments, this verse speaks directly against jealousy over other people’s possessions or relationships. God wants our focus to be on gratitude and trust in His provision.
5. 1 Corinthians 3:3
You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you,
are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans?
Explanation:
Paul confronts the church in Corinth for their jealousy and disputes, pointing out that such behavior shows spiritual immaturity. Christians are called to live differently—guided by love and unity, not envy.
6. Ecclesiastes 4:4
And I saw that all toil and all achievement spring from one person’s envy of another.
This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind.
Explanation:
Solomon observes that much human effort is driven by envy, not true purpose. Jealousy motivates many to chase success, but without eternal meaning, it’s all empty. This verse challenges us to examine our motives.
7. Romans 13:13
Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness,
not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy.
Explanation:
Paul urges believers to live in a way that reflects Christ, listing jealousy among behaviors to avoid. Living with integrity means rooting out envy from our lives.
8. 1 Peter 2:1
Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind.
Explanation:
Peter instructs believers to actively remove harmful attitudes like jealousy. It’s not something to ignore—it must be intentionally cast off so we can grow spiritually and love sincerely.
9. Genesis 4:5–6
But on Cain and his offering he did not look with favor. So Cain was very angry, and his face was downcast.
Then the Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast?”
Explanation:
Cain’s jealousy of Abel led him to commit the first murder. God gently questions him, offering a chance to do right. This story warns how unchecked jealousy can spiral into tragedy.
10. Song of Songs 8:6
Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm;
for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave.
It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame.
Explanation:
This poetic verse shows that jealousy, even in love, can be overwhelming. It teaches that while love is powerful, jealousy must be handled with care—it can either build or destroy.
11. Acts 7:9
Because the patriarchs were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt.
But God was with him.
Explanation:
Joseph’s brothers let their jealousy control them, leading to betrayal. Yet, God’s presence and purpose prevailed. This verse reminds us that even when jealousy harms us, God can redeem the situation.
12. Proverbs 27:4
Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?
Explanation:
This verse emphasizes that jealousy is even more dangerous than anger. It consumes and controls if not confronted. Scripture warns us of how destructive jealousy can truly be.
13. Galatians 5:19–21
The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy…
I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Explanation:
Jealousy is listed among sins that distance us from God. Paul stresses that a life filled with envy is not in line with the Spirit. Instead, we’re called to live in the fruit of the Spirit.
14. Mark 7:21–22
For it is from within, out of a person’s heart, that evil thoughts come—sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly.
Explanation:
Jesus teaches that sin, including envy, starts in the heart. This verse reminds us to guard our hearts and surrender jealous thoughts to God before they take root.
15. Titus 3:3
At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures.
We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another.
Explanation:
Paul reminds us of our past lives, filled with envy and division. But through Christ, we are called to a new life—one of peace, love, and spiritual transformation.
Final Thoughts on Jealousy in the Bible
Jealousy can feel like a quiet whisper or a raging storm, but no matter how it appears in our lives, the Bible gives us powerful truths to overcome it. God sees our struggles and invites us to grow in peace, contentment, and love. The verses above aren’t just warnings—they’re invitations to a better way of living.
As you reflect on these scriptures about jealousy in the Bible, ask God to show you areas where jealousy might be holding you back from joy or relationships. Let His Word be your guide toward healing and spiritual growth.
Now it’s your turn.
Have you experienced the impact of jealousy in your life? What verse spoke to you the most? Share your thoughts, favorite scriptures, or personal experiences in the comments below. Let’s encourage each other in the journey of faith and freedom.