I wrote a text-based Java program in Eclipse, which I normally run in the Console within Eclipse. But that's a lot of system resources for running a rinky dink program.

I can open a Terminal and type "java <filename>" and run it in the Terminal, but what I would really like is a launcher.

I tried to create a new launcher, enter "java <filename>" next to "Command:", and "/home/<...directory>" next to "Working Directory:", and check the box next to "Run in terminal". When I tried opening it, the terminal flashes on the screen and immediately disappears.

What I would like to do is have an icon on my desktop that I can double-click and have it open a Terminal, "java <filename>" the program, and then remain open so I can interact with it. How can I accomplish this?

Btw, I also tried making a jar file out of my 2 class files, but I had no idea what I was doing, and it obviously didn't work.

although this question should be in a java forum I give you a solution.
Here are the steps..
1. Put your .class files in a folder
2. create a file manifest.txt in that folder and type this line inside that file and this line should end with a return{enter key}
3. then create a jar with this command{cd to go to above folder by terminal}
4. make this jar executable by the command
Now you can double click to run this program/jar

I was successful in creating the jar file.

However, after entering the chmod command, when I double-click the jar file, it just shows the content of the jar file (I don't think it converted to an executable.)

I tried making a launcher to run the jar file (again), but still no luck.

Any ideas?

I got it! Here's the solution:

First, you can use Eclipse to create a jar file if you're like me and prone to making noob mistakes. Here's how... in Eclipse, right-click the package, Export, JAR file, next, type in destination folder, next, next, Browse for Main Class, Finish. You can test your jar file to make sure it's functional by opening a terminal and typing:
Once you have a functional jar file, go to your home folder and create a new empty file called "runit" or something, with no extension. Open it and enter the following:

Make sure to include the quotation marks, and then save it. Now make it an executable bash file by opening a terminal and typing:
You can test your bash file to make sure it's functional by opening a terminal and typing:
Now create a new launcher by right-clicking on the desktop & selecting "Create Launcher." Enter a name, check the box that says "run in terminal", and enter the following next to "Command":
Pick a cool icon & hit "create" and you're done! You now have a double-click-able icon for your "Hello World" Java program!

Good one ...But if you want to run jar itself(double clicking) not by Bash.
change the file opening option
right click on file(.jar file) go to properties>go to open with and then choose open with "OpenJDK runtime Environment"...

That did not work for me... perhaps because this particular program needs to run in a terminal. (Or I might need more detailed instructions.)

I'll stick with the bash launcher - that worked well.