### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **gîyl**, represented by `{{H1524}}`, conveys a sense of **joy**, **gladness**, and can be used idiomatically for **exceedingly** or **greatly**. It appears **10 times** across **10 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from a root word meaning "a revolution (of time, i.e. an age)" `{{H1523}}`, it also carries an unusual meaning of **sort** or type.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H1524}}` is used to express profound emotional states. It describes God as the source of ultimate happiness, as in "God my exceeding **joy**" [[Psalms 43:4]]. This joy extends to human relationships, such as the father who will **greatly** rejoice in a wise child [[Proverbs 23:24]]. The word is also used to describe the joyfulness of creation itself, where "the little hills **rejoice** on every side" [[Psalms 65:12]]. Conversely, the absence of `{{H1524}}` signifies judgment, as when **joy** is taken from the plentiful field in Moab ([[Isaiah 16:10]], [[Jeremiah 48:33]]) or when Israel is commanded not to rejoice due to their unfaithfulness [[Hosea 9:1]]. In a unique context, it is used by the prince of the eunuchs to describe Daniel's peer group, or **sort** [[Daniel 1:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related Hebrew words enrich the understanding of joy and rejoicing:
* `{{H1523}}` **gîyl**: As the primitive root of `{{H1524}}`, this word means to spin around under violent emotion, and thus to **rejoice**. It is often used to express a deep, active joy in God's salvation [[Habakkuk 3:18]].
* `{{H8057}}` **simchâh**: Meaning **blithesomeness or glee**, this term for joy is frequently paired with `{{H1524}}` to emphasize a state of great happiness and celebration, such as being brought into the king's palace with **gladness** and rejoicing [[Psalms 45:15]].
* `{{H7442}}` **rânan**: This word describes an outward expression of joy, specifically to **shout for joy** or sing aloud. Its absence is noted when joy is taken from the vineyards and there is "no **singing**" [[Isaiah 16:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1524}}` is seen in its connection to God's presence and judgment.
* **Joy in God's Presence:** The term is used to portray God not just as a giver of joy, but as joy itself. The psalmist resolves to go to the altar of God, who is his "exceeding **joy**" [[Psalms 43:4]], indicating that true gladness is found in relationship with Him.
* **Joy in Creation and Blessing:** `{{H1524}}` links the fruitfulness of the land with an emotional response. The rejoicing of the hills [[Psalms 65:12]] and the gladness of the plentiful field [[Jeremiah 48:33]] illustrate that joy is a natural result of God's provision and blessing.
* **The Removal of Joy as Judgment:** The prophets use the removal of **joy** `{{H1524}}` as a tangible sign of God's judgment against sin. This is seen when Israel is warned not to rejoice because they have gone "a whoring from thy God" [[Hosea 9:1]], and when gladness is "taken from the plentiful field" [[Joel 1:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1524}}` **gîyl** is a dynamic word that captures a spectrum of intense emotion, from **joy** and **gladness** to its idiomatic use for something done **greatly**. It serves as a spiritual barometer, present in times of divine blessing and fellowship, and absent in times of judgment. Whether describing the joy of a father, the celebration of nature, or the ultimate gladness found in God Himself, `{{H1524}}` highlights that true rejoicing is deeply connected to one's relationship with the Creator. Its varied applications, including its unique use to mean **sort** [[Daniel 1:10]], demonstrate its versatility in the biblical text.
TRV