### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **gélōs**, represented by `{{G1071}}`, is defined as **laughter** (as a mark of gratification). It is a rare term in scripture, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse. Its singular use in the New Testament is not as a sign of joy, but as something to be turned into mourning as an act of repentance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its only biblical occurrence, `{{G1071}}` is used in a command for believers to humble themselves. The passage instructs them: "Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your **laughter** be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness" [[James 4:9]]. Here, **laughter** is presented as an expression of gratification that is inappropriate for those who are called to repentance. It is directly contrasted with mourning `{{G3997}}` and heaviness `{{G2726}}`, highlighting a necessary shift from worldly pleasure to godly sorrow.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same passage clarify the context of `{{G1071}}`:
* `{{G3997}}` **pénthos** (grief:--mourning, sorrow): This is the state that is meant to replace **laughter**. It represents the grief that accompanies true repentance [[James 4:9]].
* `{{G5479}}` **chará** (cheerfulness, i.e. calm delight): This word for joy is used in parallel with **laughter** and is also commanded to be turned into "heaviness," reinforcing the theme of turning from self-gratification [[James 4:9]].
* `{{G2799}}` **klaíō** (to sob, i.e. wail aloud): This command to **weep** is part of the same instruction as turning from **laughter**, emphasizing an outward expression of inner sorrow and repentance [[James 4:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1071}}` is derived entirely from its specific context.
* **A Call to Repentance:** The command to turn **laughter** into mourning is part of a call to be afflicted `{{G5003}}`, mourn `{{G3996}}`, and weep `{{G2799}}`. It signifies a turning away from superficial gratification toward a sober recognition of one's spiritual state [[James 4:9]].
* **Contrast with Godly Sorrow:** The use of **laughter** highlights the incompatibility of worldly pleasure with the process of drawing near to God. It is set up as the antithesis of the mourning that leads to spiritual restoration.
* **Expression of Worldliness:** In the passage, **laughter** and joy `{{G5479}}` are associated with a spiritual condition that requires conversion to mourning `{{G3997}}` and heaviness `{{G2726}}`, underscoring the need for humility.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1071}}` is a term whose biblical meaning is defined exclusively by its single appearance. It is not a general term for all laughter, but represents a specific kind of gratification that is at odds with the humility required for repentance. Its significance comes from being the direct opposite of the mourning, weeping, and heaviness that characterize a soul turning back to God. The word powerfully illustrates how an expression of pleasure must give way to godly sorrow in the journey of faith [[James 4:9]].
TRV