jrnl is a command-line journal application that lets you create, search, and view journal entries without leaving the terminal.
The tool solves the problem of capturing thoughts and notes quickly from the command line by accepting entries with minimal syntax. You write entries using natural language timestamps like "yesterday:" followed by your text. The first sentence becomes the entry title, and the remainder becomes the body. Entries are stored as human-readable plain text files, which can optionally be encrypted using AES encryption for privacy.
The tool suits developers and terminal-focused users who prefer working in the shell and want a lightweight, scriptable journaling solution. It works well for anyone who values simplicity and portability—since journals are plain text, they integrate easily with version control, backups, and text processing tools. The project supports external editor integration, so you can compose entries in your preferred editor rather than typing directly into the prompt.
Development activity shows consistent maintenance with active testing workflows and regular updates tracked in the changelog. The project maintains multiple distribution channels including package managers, indicating ongoing effort to keep the tool accessible. Community engagement is supported through documented contribution guidelines and financial backer infrastructure, suggesting the maintainers actively welcome participation and have established structures for sustaining the project.
