Lexical Summary gelós: Laughter Original Word: γέλως Strong's Exhaustive Concordance laughter. From gelao; laughter (as a mark of gratification) -- laughter. see GREEK gelao NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom gelaó Definition laughter NASB Translation laughter (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 1071: γέλωςγέλως, γέλωτος, ὁ, laughter: James 4:9. (From Homer down.) Topical Lexicon Overview Strong’s Greek 1071 designates the noun γέλως, “laughter.” Though it appears only once in the Greek New Testament, its single placement in James 4:9 opens a wide theological window on the distinction between righteous joy and frivolous mirth. Scripture consistently weighs laughter’s motives and effects, permitting rejoicing that flows from faith while warning against levity that masks sin or mocks holiness. Biblical Usage James 4:9: “Grieve, mourn, and weep. Turn your laughter to mourning, and your joy to gloom.” In its lone New Testament occurrence, γέλως depicts worldly merriment that ignores conviction of sin. James addresses believers slipping into spiritual adultery (James 4:4) and calls them to replace careless laughter with heartfelt repentance. The verse echoes prophetic language that links superficial cheer with impending judgment (Isaiah 22:13; Luke 6:25). Contextual Analysis in James 1. Audience: Professing Christians scattered among the tribes (James 1:1) who were tolerating quarrels, envy, and pride (James 4:1–6). Old Testament and Intertestamental Parallels Although γέλως itself is rare in the Septuagint, Hebrew narratives distinguish two kinds of laughter: James stands in this prophetic tradition, condemning laughter that trivializes sin. Theological Implications 1. Nature of repentance: Genuine repentance involves emotional realism. Replacing laughter with mourning does not negate Christian joy; it clears the way for it by confronting sin. Pastoral and Ministry Applications • Preaching: Use James 4:9 to call nominal Christians from casual religiosity toward contrition. Historical and Cultural Background Greek culture prized wit and comedic performances, sometimes disparaging moral restraint. Early Christian writers such as Chrysostom warned against “unchecked laughter,” aligning with James in urging sobriety amid a decadent society. Monastic rules later incorporated restrained demeanor, citing this verse as precedent. Related New Testament Concepts • χαρά (chara, “joy”)—rooted in grace, distinguished from γέλως when devoid of reverence. Practical Reflection Christians are free to laugh, yet called to let the cross shape every emotion. When laughter flows from redemption it honors God; when it muffles conviction it must give way to tears of repentance, only then rising again as “joy comes in the morning” (Psalm 30:5). See Also Proverbs 14:13; Ecclesiastes 7:3-4; Matthew 5:4; Romans 12:15; 2 Corinthians 7:10 Forms and Transliterations γελως γέλως γέλωτα γέλωτά γέλωτι γέλωτος gelos gelōs gélos gélōsLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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