### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **simchâh**, represented by `{{H8057}}`, is a central term for **joy** and **gladness**. It appears 94 times across 89 unique verses, signifying its importance in expressing blithesomeness or glee. Derived from the root שָׂמֵחַ, this word encompasses a wide range of joy, from festive celebration and personal mirth to the profound joy that comes from God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H8057}}` is integral to religious and national life. It is associated with sacred festivals, such as the keeping of the Feast of Unleavened Bread with **joy** [[Ezra 6:22]] and the command to be joyful on solemn days [[Numbers 10:10]]. This joy is often a direct result of God's presence and intervention, as the psalmist states, "in thy presence is fulness of **joy**" [[Psalms 16:11]]. The word also marks a divine transformation, where God turns mourning into dancing and girds His people with **gladness** [[Psalms 30:11]]. Conversely, the removal of this joy is a sign of judgment, as when God promises to cause the "voice of mirth and the voice of **gladness**" to cease from the land [[Jeremiah 7:34]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the spectrum of biblical joy:
* `{{H8055}}` **sâmach**: a primitive root; probably to brighten up, i.e. (figuratively) be (causatively, make) blithe or gleesome; cheer up, be (make) glad, (have, make) joy(-ful), be (make) merry, (cause to, make to) rejoice, [idiom] very. As the root of `{{H8057}}`, it describes the action of rejoicing. God makes His people **rejoice** `{{H8055}}` with great **joy** `{{H8057}}` [[Nehemiah 12:43]].
* `{{H8342}}` **sâsôwn**: from שׂוּשׂ; cheerfulness; specifically, welcome; gladness, joy, mirth, rejoicing. This word is frequently paired with **simchâh** to express a complete state of happiness. The redeemed will obtain **gladness** `{{H8342}}` and **joy** `{{H8057}}` upon their return to Zion [[Isaiah 51:11]].
* `{{H7440}}` **rinnâh**: from רָנַן; properly, a creaking (or shrill sound), i.e. shout (of joy or grief); cry, gladness, joy, proclamation, rejoicing, shouting, sing(-ing), triumph. This term often describes the outward, vocal expression of joy. God promises His people will "go out with **joy** `{{H8057}}`" and the mountains will break forth into **singing** `{{H7440}}` [[Isaiah 55:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8057}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of the relationship between God and humanity.
* **Joy as a Divine Gift:** Scripture presents joy not merely as a human emotion but as something given by God. He grants wisdom, knowledge, and **joy** to those who are good in His sight [[Ecclesiastes 2:26]], and a merry heart is a sign of God's acceptance of one's works [[Ecclesiastes 9:7]].
* **The Fruit of Redemption:** Everlasting **joy** is a hallmark of God's redemptive plan. The ransomed of the LORD will return to Zion with "everlasting **joy** upon their heads" [[Isaiah 35:10]]. This hope is extended to the meek, who "shall increase their **joy** in the LORD" [[Isaiah 29:19]].
* **An Expression of Worship:** Joy is also an active response to God. The people are commanded to "Serve the LORD with **gladness**" [[Psalms 100:2]]. This is demonstrated when bringing the ark of the covenant [[2 Samuel 6:12]] or when the people offer willingly to God with "great **joy**" [[1 Chronicles 29:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8057}}` is far more than a simple word for happiness. It captures a concept deeply woven into biblical faith, encompassing personal mirth, communal celebration, and the ultimate delight found in God's presence. It is portrayed as a gift from God, a proper response to His redemptive power, and an integral part of worship. The word illustrates a spiritual reality that moves beyond circumstance, pointing to the "everlasting **joy**" that is the promised inheritance of God's people [[Isaiah 61:7]].
TRV