### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **chará**, represented by `{{G5479}}`, defines a deep sense of **joy** and **calm delight**. It appears 59 times across 57 verses in the Bible. Originating from the verb χαίρω (to be cheerful), this term conveys a profound cheerfulness and gladness that is often rooted in a spiritual source rather than mere circumstance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5479}}` is presented as a core component of the Christian life. It is listed as a fruit of the Spirit, alongside love and peace [[Galatians 5:22]]. Believers are encouraged to count trials as "all **joy**" [[James 1:2]], demonstrating that its source is not circumstantial. This is exemplified by Jesus, who for the **joy** set before him, endured the cross [[Hebrews 12:2]]. Furthermore, **joy** is a defining characteristic of the kingdom of God, described as righteousness, peace, and **joy** in the Holy Ghost [[Romans 14:17]]. It is also the response in heaven over one sinner that repenteth [[Luke 15:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of joy and its contrasts:
* `{{G5463}}` **chaírō** (to be "cheer"ful, i.e. calmly happy or well-off): As the root verb of **chará**, this word describes the action of rejoicing. The two are often linked, as when sorrow turns to **joy** `{{G5479}}`, the heart shall **rejoice** `{{G5463}}` [[John 16:22]].
* `{{G3077}}` **lýpē** (sadness): This word for sorrow or grief often appears in direct contrast to **chará**. Sorrow can be turned into **joy** [[John 16:20]], and chastening that is **grievous** `{{G3077}}` is contrasted with what is **joyous** `{{G5479}}` [[Hebrews 12:11]].
* `{{G20}}` **agallíasis** (exultation; specially, welcome): A term for exultation or gladness, it is used alongside **chará** to describe the profound happiness surrounding the birth of John the Baptist [[Luke 1:14]].
* `{{G2347}}` **thlîpsis** (pressure (literally or figuratively)): This word for affliction or tribulation provides a crucial context for understanding biblical **joy**, which is often experienced in the midst of suffering ([[1 Thessalonians 1:6]], [[2 Corinthians 7:4]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5479}}` is immense, framing it as a hallmark of a Spirit-filled life.
* **A Fruit of the Spirit:** `{{G5479}}` is not an emotion generated by human effort but a direct result of the Holy Spirit's presence in a believer's life [[Galatians 5:22]]. This spiritual origin is reinforced by its association with the Holy Ghost in other passages ([[Romans 14:17]], [[1 Thessalonians 1:6]]).
* **Strength in Adversity:** Scripture repeatedly portrays **joy** as a strength that endures through trials. Believers are told to find **joy** in temptations [[James 1:2]] and can be "exceeding **joyful**" even in tribulation [[2 Corinthians 7:4]]. Jesus himself is the ultimate example, enduring the cross for the **joy** that was set before him [[Hebrews 12:2]].
* **The Goal of Christian Fellowship:** A key purpose of apostolic ministry and writing was to ensure that the believers' **joy** would be full ([[John 15:11]], [[1 John 1:4]]). The unity and love among believers is described as the fulfillment of **joy** [[Philippians 2:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5479}}` represents more than fleeting happiness; it is a profound and enduring cheerfulness rooted in God. It is a gift of the Holy Spirit, a defining quality of the kingdom of God, and a source of strength that can coexist with affliction. From the great **joy** of the gospel's announcement [[Luke 2:10]] to the fulfilled **joy** promised to believers [[John 15:11]], **chará** is an essential element of the Christian experience and hope.
TRV