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The claim that laughter is levity is incorrect, although levity may sometimes accompany it.

As for the term [levity], if one means by it a blameworthy quality, that applies when someone laughs at something that ought not to be laughed at. Otherwise, laughter on an appropriate occasion is a praiseworthy attribute and a perfection. Suppose there were two living beings: one laughs at what calls for laughter, while the other never laughs. The former would be more perfect than the latter.

Hence the Prophet—may Allah bless him and grant him peace—said:

“The Lord looks upon you while you are despondent and continues to laugh, knowing that your relief is near.”

Abū Razīn al-Uqaylī asked him, “O Messenger of Allah, does the Lord laugh?” He replied, “Yes.” He said, “We shall never be deprived of good from a Lord who laughs.”

Through his sound natural disposition, this discerning Bedouin thus took His laughter as evidence of His beneficence and bestowal of blessings. This indicates that the attribute is associated with praiseworthy beneficence and is among the attributes of perfection. A sullen person who never laughs is blameworthy for that very reason. It has been said of a day of severe punishment that it is:

{“a frowning, distressful Day”}

[al-Insān: 10].

It has also been related that the angels said to Adam, “May Allah grant you life and laughter”—meaning, “May He make you laugh.”