ABSTRACT
In this brief commentary, I consider various distinctions between joy and happiness from a humanistic point of view. Next I describe some characteristics of joy as revealed in religious traditions, consider how one what might be ‘trained’ in or for joy, and conclude with a cautionary note concerning a focus on joy in modern life.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.
Notes
1. σπλαγχνίζομαι – to ‘feel compassion’ (Lk 15:20 & elsewhere) – 8 of 12 uses in NT refer to Jesus feeling compassion for others (Mt 9:36, 14:14, 15:32, 18:27 (not Jesus), 20:34, Mk 1:41, 6:34, 8:2, 9:22 (not Jesus, but compassion asked of him by another); Lk 7:13, 10:33 (not Jesus, the Samaritan), 15:20 (not Jesus, but father of the Prodigal). ελθών – ‘came to himself’ (Lk 15:17); also, notice joy and hinneni and ‘follow me’? I thank Rebekah Latour for help with this matter.