The adjective ἱλαρός describes someone cheerful, glad, or merry in disposition—bright-spirited rather than gloomy or reluctant. Classical sources use it for cheerful light, gracious demeanor, or glad tidings. Paul quotes a principle in 2 Corinthians 9:7: "God loves a cheerful giver" (ἱλαρὸν δότην). The word emphasizes not just the act of giving but the spirit—joyful, willing generosity without grudging or compulsion. The attitude matters as much as the action. Translations render it "cheerful" (English), "alegre" (Spanish), "joyeux" (French), capturing the glad-hearted willingness that should characterize Christian generosity.