Basic Emotion Theories propose that a small set of biologically rooted emotions are universally recognisable yet culturally shaped in their expression, a tension often framed as universality versus culture. Building on Charles Darwin’s insight that emotional expressions may be inherited (1872), scholars such as Silvan Tomkins (1962–1963) and Carroll Izard (1971) argued for innate “basic” emotions, while critics later emphasised cultural construction. The most influential empirical synthesis came from Paul Ekman, whose cross-cultural studies in the late 1960s–early 1970s, including work with the Fore of Papua New Guinea, demonstrated reliable recognition of core facial expressions across societies (Ekman & Friesen, 1971), leading him to articulate widely taught basic categories (commonly happiness, sadness, anger, fear, disgust, and surprise) and to distinguish universal facial signals from culturally learned display rules that govern when and how emotions may be shown (Ekman & Friesen, 1969; Ekman et al., 1972). Seen through a Christian lens, this research resonates with the doctrine of the imago Dei, that humans are created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), suggesting a shared emotional design that enables empathy across peoples, while Scripture also affirms wise regulation of emotion (e.g., “be angry and do not sin,” Ephesians 4:26; “rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep,” Romans 12:15), exemplified supremely in Jesus’ compassion (Matthew 9:36) and the healing joy that “is good medicine” (Proverbs 17:22). Together, the science and the faith perspective illuminate how recognising universal emotions while honouring healthy cultural norms fosters personal wellbeing through emotional literacy and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23) and strengthens societal health by promoting cross-cultural understanding, reduced conflict, and compassionate care grounded in our shared humanity.