εὐφροσύνη (euphrosunē)
euphrosunē
joy
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun euphrosunē denotes a state of good cheer or gladness. In the New Testament, it appears only twice, both in the book of Acts. The word conveys a sense of inner rejoicing that is often linked to God’s provision and care for His people.
Its meaning aligns closely with the Hebrew simchah found in the Septuagint, which translates to joy or gladness. This connection highlights a continuity between the Old and New Testaments, where divine favor is met with human rejoicing. In Acts 2:28, Peter quotes Psalm 16, describing how God’s presence brings such joy that it overcomes even death. Similarly, in Acts 14:17, Paul and Barnabas point to God’s kindness in giving rain and fruitful seasons as a basis for this gladness.
The term suggests a cheerful disposition rooted in gratitude rather than mere circumstance. It reflects a heart aligned with God’s blessings, whether spiritual or physical. By using euphrosunē, the biblical writers emphasize that true joy arises from recognizing God’s hand in all things.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word euphrosunē describes a deep sense of gladness that comes from knowing God is near. In Acts 2:28, Peter quotes Psalm 16 to show that life’s true fullness is found in God’s presence. This joy is not just a fleeting emotion but a steady state of heart that anchors us when we face uncertainty or even death.
We also see this gladness in Acts 14:17, where Paul and Barnabas point to everyday blessings like rain and food as evidence of God’s kindness. When we notice these gifts, our hearts are filled with a cheerful gratitude that reflects God’s care. This kind of joy reminds us that God is actively involved in our daily lives, providing for our needs and drawing us closer to Him.
As you walk through your own season, consider how God’s presence and provision are already working in your life. Let this awareness shape your perspective, bringing a quiet confidence and thankfulness that strengthens your faith and encourages those around you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- with joy1×
- gladness1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- εὐφροσύνης2×
Key Verses
-
Acts 2:28
You made known to me the ways of life. You will make me full of gladness with your presence.’
Peter uses this term to describe the life-giving joy found in God's presence, showing that true gladness overcomes even death.
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Acts 14:17
Yet he didn’t leave himself without witness, in that he did good and gave you rains from the sky and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.”
Paul and Barnabas link this gladness directly to God’s kindness in providing for physical needs like rain and food.