[Greek] ἱλαρότης (hilarotēs), [Latin] hilaritas: cheerfulness, gladness, benevolence, gaiety, amiability, joyfulness; Rom.12:8
St. Philip Neri: “Cheerfulness strengthens the heart and helps us to persevere.”
Background Information:
Greek Hellenism: This term, meaning cheerfulness and sun (light), is found less frequently than its related adjective form cheerful. However, the meanings and contexts are essentially similar. Aristophanes’ Frogs 455 states “We alone enjoy the sun and the light.” This term provides an interesting description of King Agesilaus II of Greece, small in stature and lame at birth, who becomes a noble and loved leader. Plutarch’ Agesilaus II states, “As for his lameness, the beauty of this person in his youthful prime covered this from this sight, while the ease and gaiety with which he bore such a misfortune and teasing….made him more lovable down to his old age.” Galen, the 2nd century Greek physician, failed to recognize the heart’s true role in blood circulation. Perhaps Galen’s Platonic philosophical beliefs clouded his scientific judgment.
Old Testament: This term, meaning cheerful, favorable, accepting, delightful, and desirable, plays a more important role in the cultural attitudes in the Old Testament. Interestingly, happy is never an attribute given to God. The “kindly eye” (or “good eye”) becomes an important attitude for generosity. Cheerfulness and a kind heart produce an attitude of generosity and benevolence. In a sense, being generous means having a “radiant heart” and being cheerful. The Rabbis emphasize the connection between generosity and cheerfulness with the expression: “He who gives alms, let him do so with a cheerful heart.” In the Hebrew culture, the heart is the center of human thought, spiritual life, and emotions.
The just man’s sacrifice is most pleasing, nor will it ever be forgotten (Sir.35:9). He who finds a wife finds a thing and obtains favor from the Lord (Pro.18:22). That they (gifts) may be accepted before the Lord (Lev.1:3). You surround him with favor as with a shield (Psa.5:12). I delight to do Your will O my God (Psa.40:8). But among the upright there is good will (Prov.14:9). Your burnt offerings are not acceptable and your sacrifices are not pleasing to Me (Jer.6:20).
New Testament: This term, occurring only once in the book of Romans, means cheerfulness. The freedom and authenticity of generosity is marked by the attitude of cheerfulness. Christians are also called to follow this Jewish notion of cheerfulness and generosity. Paul makes reference to “the one who is over others.” Paul alludes to benefactors and patrons who were frequently asked to support or subsidize public service projects. Paul calls upon these influential people to act and serve with cheerfulness.
Scripture:
“If one exhorts, in exhortation, if one contributes, in generosity; if one is over others, with diligence; if one does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.” Rom. 12:8
Paul calls upon others to act with a cheerful heart in being generous.
Conclusion:
Hilarious, hilarity
I was surprised that this term was used infrequently in Hellenistic times. I suppose whether one uses cheerful and cheerfulness, it is the same idea. As with any age in history, literature, arts, and philosophy all can illustrate the human condition. The notion of the heart as the ‘seat of emotions’ becomes associated with Aristotle and the physician Galen. The idea of the ‘evil eye also exists, continuing into the Old Testament culture.
The ‘kindly eye’ becomes an important cultural value in the Old Testament. In a sense, one who “radiates” a cheerful heart becomes generous. The heart becomes a metaphor for one’s deeply held thoughts and inclinations. The heart is extensively found in Old Testament scripture. This value continues in the New Testament culture. What is Christian is the motivation from this cheerfulness. In fact, there is no reason why this value should not continue in today’s culture. Paul is also calling upon others to be cheerful and generous.
What would Paul say today? Perhaps…
@FormerAngryPharisee and@CheerfulSlaveForChrist wants you to give and serve until it makes you cheerful. #CheerfulHeart #HeartSeatOfEmotions
(This is really not so hilarious once you think how effective Paul was effective in promoting the gospel).