The Greek word euphrosýnē, represented by G2167, is defined as joyfulness, gladness, or joy. It appears 2 times in 2 unique verses, highlighting specific contexts in which this state of happiness is experienced.
In scripture, G2167 is used to describe joy that stems from both God's provision and His presence. In one instance, it is presented as a result of God's benevolence in creation, where He provides a witness of Himself by giving rain, fruitful seasons, and "filling our hearts with food and gladness" Acts 14:17. In its other use, it describes a more direct spiritual experience, a fulfillment of the promise that God will make one "full of joy with thy countenance" Acts 2:28.
Several related words help clarify the sources and nature of this joy:
- G1325 dídōmi: This word means to give and is central to the concept of gladness. God is the one who gave the material blessings that lead to gladness in Acts 14:17, and He is also the one who has given us the spirit of power and love, not fear 2 Timothy 1:7.
- G1705 empíplēmi: Defined as to fill in (up), this word is directly tied to the experience of G2167. It is used to describe God filling hearts with food and gladness Acts 14:17 and is also used in contexts like filling the hungry with good things Luke 1:53.
- G4137 plēróō: Meaning to make replete, this verb is used in Acts 2:28 where the speaker will be made full of joy. It emphasizes a sense of completion or fulfillment, whether it is fulfilling the law Romans 13:8 or being filled with joy and peace Romans 15:13.
- G5160 trophḗ: This word for nourishment or food is explicitly paired with gladness in Acts 14:17. It shows that joy can be found in the satisfaction of basic needs provided by God, underscoring that life is more than meat Matthew 6:25.
The theological significance of G2167 is tied to its two distinct sources.
- Joy from Divine Provision: The use of the word in Acts 14:17 establishes that gladness is a proper response to God's common grace. By providing for humanity with rain, seasons, and food, God fills hearts with a tangible joy that serves as a witness to His goodness.
- Joy in God's Presence: The quotation in Acts 2:28 points to a deeper source of joy. It is not derived from material gifts, but from being in the "countenance," or presence, of God Himself. This signifies a relational joy that is a core part of the life He makes known.
In summary, G2167 encapsulates a profound joyfulness that originates from God. Though used infrequently, its appearances highlight two fundamental truths: joy can be found in the physical and tangible blessings God provides for all humanity, and a deeper, more complete joy is found in the spiritual reality of His divine presence. It illustrates that gladness is both a gift received and a state experienced in relationship with the Giver.
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