### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **chedvâh**, represented by `{{H2304}}`, translates to **gladness** or **joy**. It is derived from a root word meaning rejoicing. This specific term is used sparingly in scripture, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, yet its context provides a significant understanding of joy as a divine attribute and source of strength.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The two appearances of `{{H2304}}` anchor its meaning in the presence and power of God. In [[1 Chronicles 16:27]], **gladness** is listed with **strength** `{{H5797}}`, **glory** `{{H1935}}`, and **honour** `{{H1926}}` as a quality found "in his place," describing the atmosphere of God's presence. In [[Nehemiah 8:10]], the concept is presented as a vital resource for God's people. They are instructed to celebrate a holy day and not be **sorry** `{{H6087}}`, because "the **joy** of the LORD is your strength."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature of this divine joy:
* `{{H1935}}` **hôwd** (grandeur; beauty, comeliness, excellency, glorious, glory, goodly, honour, majesty): This word appears alongside `{{H2304}}` in [[1 Chronicles 16:27]], highlighting that the gladness found in God's presence is connected to His divine majesty.
* `{{H1926}}` **hâdâr** (magnificence, i.e. ornament or splendor; beauty, comeliness, excellency, glorious, glory, goodly, honour, majesty): Also used in [[1 Chronicles 16:27]], this term further associates God's gladness with His splendor and glory.
* `{{H5797}}` **'ôz** (strength in various applications; force, security, majesty, praise): This word is directly linked to `{{H2304}}` in both of its occurrences, either as a parallel attribute in God's presence [[1 Chronicles 16:27]] or as the direct result of His joy [[Nehemiah 8:10]].
* `{{H6087}}` **'âtsab** (to worry, pain or anger; be sorry): In [[Nehemiah 8:10]], the people are explicitly told not to be sorry, setting up a direct contrast between human grief and the strength-giving joy that comes from the LORD.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H2304}}` is centered on joy as a spiritual reality originating from God.
* **A Source of Divine Strength:** The primary theological point comes from [[Nehemiah 8:10]], which declares that the joy of the LORD is the people's strength. It is not merely an emotion but a source of spiritual power and security.
* **An Attribute of God's Presence:** Based on [[1 Chronicles 16:27]], **gladness** is an intrinsic characteristic of God's dwelling. To be in His presence is to be in a place of strength and gladness.
* **A Commanded Act of Worship:** The joy in [[Nehemiah 8:10]] is not passive. It is expressed through active celebration: eating, drinking, and sharing with others. This joy is a deliberate response to God's holiness, commanded as an alternative to sorrow.
### Summary
In summary, though rare, `{{H2304}}` **chedvâh** provides a powerful definition of a joy that is profoundly theological. It is not a fleeting human feeling but a divine quality inherent to God's presence. This gladness is presented as a source of supernatural strength and a commanded act of worship, demonstrating how joy itself can be a sacred duty and a gift from God.
TRV