Joy as a way of life

Judaism places a significant emphasis on joy—not the fleeting excitement of a good day or a lucky break, but an enduring sense of fulfillment that comes from a connection to something greater than ourselves. This joy isn’t reserved for holidays or celebrations; it’s a state of being that we’re encouraged to cultivate every day. As King David expressed in Psalms, “Serve G-d with joy, come before Him with singing.” But how do we make this ancient wisdom relevant in today’s world?

Life is full of challenges. From work deadlines to family obligations and the unexpected twists of daily life, joy can often feel elusive. Yet, the Torah teaches us that joy doesn’t mean escaping difficulties—it means embracing them with faith and gratitude.

Take King David himself as an example. His life was filled with personal struggles and political upheaval, yet his unwavering relationship with G-d gave him a joy that transcended his circumstances. He saw every moment, whether hopeful or painful, as an opportunity to grow, connect, and serve. This mindset can inspire us to find joy in our own lives—not as a result of solving our problems, but as the strength that helps us face them.

In our fast-paced modern world, we often think joy is a reward waiting at the end of our to-do list. “I’ll be happy when I get the promotion,” or “I’ll relax when life settles down.” But Judaism flips this perspective. Joy isn’t the result of achieving external goals; it’s the foundation that allows us to tackle life’s trials. By starting with joy, we find the resilience to move forward with clarity and purpose.

Community plays a central role in cultivating joy. From the laughter shared at a Shabbat dinner to the collective singing during holidays, our traditions remind us that joy grows when it’s shared. Consider Sukkot, called in the Torah “a time of our rejoicing.” On the surface, building a sukkah, eating outside, and braving the elements might seem inconvenient. Yet, these very challenges create a unique sense of connection and joy. It’s about stepping out of our comfort zones together to remind ourselves of life’s deeper meaning and our shared journey.

In today’s hyper-connected yet often isolating world, genuine human connection is more crucial than ever. True joy comes not from likes or follows, but from face-to-face interactions: the warmth of praying alongside others, the comfort of shared meals, and the knowledge that we’re part of a larger story.

Judaism also ties joy directly to spiritual practice. While rituals can sometimes feel routine or even burdensome, they have the power to transform our mindset when approached with intention. Take the mitzvah of giving charity. On the surface, it might seem like a simple transaction. But when we give with joy, recognizing that we’re partners with G-d in improving the world, the act becomes deeply fulfilling. The same applies to lighting Shabbat candles, studying Torah, or helping a neighbor—these are not obligations but opportunities to infuse our lives with meaning.

Of course, joy doesn’t always come naturally, and that’s okay. Like any skill, it requires practice. Start small: take a moment each day to reflect on something you’re grateful for, and share that gratitude with someone else. Over time, these small acts create a foundation of joy that becomes part of who you are.

Choosing joy isn’t about denying life’s difficulties; it’s about confronting them with hope and faith. It’s saying, “Despite everything, I choose to celebrate, to find meaning, and to connect—with G-d, with others, and with myself.”

Because in the end, joy isn’t just an emotion. It’s a way of life, a choice we make every day to serve, to love, and to grow.