A Cascade of Delight

In doing a little bit of online research into some Greek words in the New Testament, I stumbled upon a connection I wanted to share concerning the word group around the Greek root χαρ- (char).

The base meaning of "char" implies something that brings joy or delight. Like a gift. Consequently, the Greek word for grace--charis--employs this root.

Relatedly, if you receive this gift then you experience joy. So, the Greek word for joy--chara--also comes from this same root. Basically, grace and joy are two sides of the same coin, the giving and receiving of delight.

The connection goes on. The Greek word for thanksgiving--eucharistia--also comes from the same Greek root. The gift prompts joy which prompts thanksgiving, expressing our gratitude for the gift.

And one more connection.

The Greek word for giving--charizomai-- comes from the same root. Charizomai is also translated as "forgiveness." This should make sense, as I can give gifts and extend grace to others.

Stepping back, what we have here, etymologically speaking, is a circle of grace. Grace prompting joy, joy prompting thanksgiving, and thanksgiving prompting giving and forgiving. The Greek root "char"--delight--threads through it all. And not just linked etymologically, as I recount in The Shape of Joy these connections thread through the empirical research on positive psychology as well.

Grace, joy, gratitude, giving, and forgiving.

A cascade of delight.