Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: The concept of joy and gladness in the Hebrew Bible is often expressed with words such as שִׂמְחָה (simchah, Strong's Hebrew 8057) and שָׂשׂוֹן (sason, Strong's Hebrew 8342). These terms similarly convey a sense of joy, mirth, and gladness, often in the context of religious festivals, worship, and the experience of God's blessings.

Usage: The word εὐφροσύνη is used in the New Testament to describe a state of joy or gladness, often in the context of spiritual or communal celebration. It appears in contexts that emphasize the joy of believers, particularly in relation to God's presence and blessings.

Context: εὐφροσύνη is a term that captures the essence of joy and gladness, often linked to the experience of divine favor and communal celebration. In the New Testament, it is used to describe the joy that comes from the presence of the Holy Spirit and the fellowship of believers. For instance, in Acts 2:28, it is used to express the joy of being in God's presence: "You have made known to me the paths of life; You will fill me with joy in Your presence." This joy is not merely an emotional response but a profound sense of well-being rooted in spiritual realities.

The concept of εὐφροσύνη is also evident in the context of worship and thanksgiving. In Acts 14:17, Paul speaks of God's provision and goodness, which fills hearts with joy: "Yet He has not left Himself without testimony to His goodness: He gives you rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling your hearts with food and gladness." Here, εὐφροσύνη is associated with the recognition of God's providence and the resulting gratitude and joy.

The use of εὐφροσύνη in the New Testament underscores the transformative power of the Gospel, which brings about a deep-seated joy that transcends circumstances. It is a joy that is both a gift from God and a response to His grace, often manifesting in communal expressions of worship and celebration.