### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ἀγαλλιάω (agalliáō)**, represented by `{{G21}}`, describes an exuberant form of joy. Derived from `agan` (much) and `ἅλλομαι`, its proper meaning is to **jump for joy** or to **exult**. It appears **11 times** across **11 unique verses**, often translated as "be (exceeding) glad," with "exceeding joy," or to "rejoice (greatly)."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G21}}` signifies a profound spiritual joy, often in response to God's actions. Mary's spirit "hath rejoiced in God my Saviour" [[Luke 1:47]], and Jesus himself "rejoiced in spirit" over the Father's sovereign will [[Luke 10:21]]. This exultation is commanded for believers, even in the midst of persecution, with the promise of a great reward in heaven [[Matthew 5:12]]. It is also a forward-looking joy, as Abraham "rejoiced to see" the day of Christ [[John 8:56]], and it is the reaction of a new believer who "rejoiced, believing in God with all his house" [[Acts 16:34]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the context of this powerful emotion:
* `{{G5463}}` **chaírō** (to be "cheer"ful, i.e. calmly happy or well-off): This common word for joy is often used in tandem with `{{G21}}` to show an escalation of emotion, such as in the command to "Rejoice `{{G5463}}`, and be exceeding glad `{{G21}}`" [[Matthew 5:12]].
* `{{G5479}}` **chará** (cheerfulness, i.e. calm delight): This noun for joy is the direct result of the action of `{{G21}}`. Believers are described as those who "rejoice `{{G21}}` with joy `{{G5479}}` unspeakable and full of glory" [[1 Peter 1:8]].
* `{{G2165}}` **euphraínō** (rejoice, make merry): Defined as being put in a good frame of mind, this word is used in prophecy to say "my heart rejoice `{{G2165}}`, and my tongue was glad `{{G21}}`," linking internal cheerfulness to outward exultation [[Acts 2:26]].
* `{{G1391}}` **dóxa** (glory, honour, praise): This exultation is frequently connected to the revelation of God's glory. Believers who partake in Christ's sufferings can expect to "be glad also with exceeding joy `{{G21}}`" when his "glory `{{G1391}}` shall be revealed" [[1 Peter 4:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G21}}` is significant, highlighting a joy that transcends earthly circumstances.
* **Joy in God's Character and Salvation:** The joy of `{{G21}}` is directed toward God himself. It is seen in Mary's celebration of God her Saviour [[Luke 1:47]] and in the great heavenly crowd that will "rejoice `{{G21}}`" and give honour to him at the marriage of the Lamb [[Revelation 19:7]].
* **Exultation Amidst Trials:** The word is used to describe a believer's state even while experiencing "manifold temptations" [[1 Peter 1:6]]. This is not a denial of suffering, but a joy rooted in a greater hope that is "full of glory" [[1 Peter 1:8]].
* **Response to Divine Revelation:** This joy is a response to understanding God's plan. Jesus rejoiced when the Father revealed truths to "babes" [[Luke 10:21]], and believers are to rejoice with exceeding joy when Christ's glory is finally revealed [[1 Peter 4:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G21}}` is far more than simple happiness. It is a profound, outward exultation—a spiritual "jumping for joy"—that is rooted in the salvation and glory of God. It defines the response of a believer who, despite present trials, recognizes the supreme worth and triumphant reality of God's redemptive work. This word captures a joy that is not dependent on circumstance but on the unshakable truth of God.
TRV