ZEAL, represented by the Rose of Sharon (cistus), generates spiritual motivation, which results in the unfoldment of our greatest good, manifesting as an inspirational desire for fulfillment, through energy, exuberance and enthusiasm. It is the unlimited force behind all things, inciting wind, storm, tides, the very breath of life, demanding us to move forward.
Charles Fillmore’s Twelve Powers of Man says that we must cooperate with the energy generated by zeal. Otherwise, you “impede the growth of the soul.” The Deuteronomist says “I, your God am a zealous God.” (Deuteronomy 5:9) Each one of us has this spiritual faculty of energy expressing in, as and through us.
The disciple representing zeal is Simon the Canaanite. Simon means hearing, receptivity and Canaan means zeal. The Canaanites dwelt in the lowlands, so this faculty, originating in the sub-consciousness is life to spiritual consciousness.
An example of a character representing zeal is Paul. He was both zealous in killing Christians and then zealously following Jesus. (Acts 1:13a)
In Psalm 69:9, the Psalmist says “For zeal for thy house has consumed me…” Overactive zeal can consume vitality, leaving nothing for spiritual growth. Thus, spiritual balance requires that we not be overtaken by zeal.
The Rose of Sharon is a perennial shrub with showy five-petal flowers from white to purple. It was one of the first aromatic substances used in ancient times. Its leaves were coated with sticky, aromatic resin. In biblical times, this resin was collected from goats and sheep that came back with it stuck in their hair, and the shepherds discovered that it healed wounds. 
Rose of Sharon demonstrates zeal in its growth as an invasive plant found from Morocco, through the Middle East to Spain and France. It is sweet, honey scented with many properties of myrrh, such as cell regeneration, wound healing and reducing inflammation. It is believed that the oil carried by the Midianites was Rose of Sharon, mixed with myrrh.
Rose of Sharon, which is not a true rose, is stimulating to the senses of touch, feeling, sight and sound.
It may help quiet the nerves, calm the insomniac and elevate the emotions in meditation.
Isaiah says (Isaiah 35:1-2), “[t]he wilderness and the dry land shall be glad, the desert shall rejoice and blossom; like the crocus it shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice with joy and singing.
The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, the majesty of Carmel and Sharon. They shall see the glory of the Lord and the majesty of our God.”
