Easter is one of the most significant times in the Christian liturgical calendar, and the phrase “He is risen” or “He has risen” is often repeated in churches and religious gatherings around the world.
While the difference between these two phrases may seem trivial at first, a closer look reveals subtle, yet important, variations in their grammatical, theological, and historical implications.
In this article, we will explore both phrases in-depth—understanding their meanings, grammatical structures, and religious significance.
The Historical and Biblical Context
Before diving into the grammatical nuances of “He is risen” and “He has risen,” it’s important to understand the origins of these phrases. Both phrases trace their roots to the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which forms the core of Christian belief.
The resurrection is central to Christian theology because it symbolizes Christ’s victory over death and sin. When we say “He is risen” or “He has risen,” we are proclaiming the reality of Christ’s return to life after His crucifixion.
The phrase is first seen in the New Testament of the Bible. In the Gospel of Matthew, when the women arrived at Jesus’ tomb on Easter morning, the angel greeted them with the words: “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for He has risen, as He said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay” (Matthew 28:5-6, NKJV).
The historical and theological weight of these words cannot be understated. The resurrection marks the climax of the Gospel story, and the language surrounding it is designed to convey both the awe and finality of the event.
Grammatical Breakdown: “He Is Risen” vs. “He Has Risen”
At the heart of the debate between “He is risen” and “He has risen” lies a subtle yet significant difference in grammar. Understanding this difference can help clarify which phrase is more appropriate depending on the context.
“He Is Risen”
The phrase “He is risen” uses the passive voice, where the subject (Jesus) is acted upon rather than performing an action. This construction was common in older forms of English, particularly in liturgical settings. The passive voice emphasizes the event itself rather than the action of rising. This choice of words suggests a state of being—Jesus is risen because God has brought Him back to life.
Why this phrase feels more archaic:
- The use of the passive voice was more prevalent in earlier English, such as the language used in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible.
- This form adds a sense of solemnity and reverence to the event, making it a powerful, timeless declaration.
- The passive voice also highlights that the resurrection is a divine act—it’s God who has risen Jesus, and the focus is not on the act itself but on the consequence of that act.
“He Has Risen”
In contrast, “He has risen” uses the present perfect tense, which is common in modern English. The present perfect tense suggests that the action of rising occurred in the past but has ongoing relevance or significance in the present.
Why this phrase is more common today:
- The present perfect is a more natural construction for English speakers today.
- It emphasizes the completion of the action of the resurrection, while also implying the continuing significance of that event.
- This form aligns with how we talk about events that have lasting consequences, such as the resurrection itself.
While “He has risen” is grammatically more modern, both phrases carry the same core meaning—proclaiming the resurrection of Christ. The difference lies more in the style and nuance of the expression.
Scriptural Evidence: Examining Bible Translations
The Bible’s use of either “He is risen” or “He has risen” varies depending on the translation. Let’s take a look at how different versions of the Bible handle this phrase.
King James Version (KJV)
In the KJV, the phrase appears as “He is risen” in Matthew 28:6 and other gospels. The passive voice here is a stylistic choice that aligns with the formal and poetic language of the KJV. This version of the Bible has had a profound influence on Christian liturgy, and the use of “He is risen” in hymns and church services is still deeply rooted in tradition.
New International Version (NIV) and English Standard Version (ESV)
In more contemporary translations like the NIV and ESV, the phrase is rendered as “He has risen”. These translations favor the present perfect tense, reflecting the shift toward modern English grammar and making the language more accessible to today’s readers.
Comparison of Translations
Bible VersionPhrase UsedTone and StyleKing James Version (KJV)”He is risen”Formal, passive, traditionalNew International Version (NIV)”He has risen”Modern, active, present perfectEnglish Standard Version (ESV)”He has risen”Modern, formal, active, present perfectNew Living Translation (NLT)”He has risen”Informal, straightforward, active
Both phrases are theologically equivalent, but they differ in style and grammatical usage based on the translation’s intended audience.
Theological Implications of the Phrase Variations
While the grammatical differences between “He is risen” and “He has risen” may seem minor, they carry significant theological implications.
“He Is Risen” and the Emphasis on Divine Action
The phrase “He is risen” carries a strong theological emphasis on God’s active role in the resurrection. It highlights the passive state of Christ’s body—Jesus does not rise on His own but is raised by the power of God. This phrasing emphasizes the divine nature of the resurrection, indicating that it is an act of grace and power beyond human comprehension.
For centuries, “He is risen” has been associated with liturgical traditions that celebrate Christ’s resurrection as a divine event, one in which God demonstrates His supremacy over death.
“He Has Risen” and the Focus on Completion
On the other hand, “He has risen” emphasizes the completed nature of the resurrection. This phrase focuses on the historical fact of Christ’s resurrection and its ongoing effects. By using the present perfect tense, it suggests that the resurrection is not just an event of the past, but something that continues to shape Christian faith today.
In modern Christian thought, “He has risen” may feel more in tune with personal salvation. The resurrection is not just something that happened to Jesus, but something that impacts believers—Christ’s victory over death is seen as a guarantee of eternal life for those who follow Him.
Religious Tradition and Language: Why It Matters
Language plays a crucial role in how religious beliefs are expressed and experienced. Christian liturgies, hymns, and prayers have long incorporated traditional phrases that reflect the theology and history of the faith. The phrase “He is risen” has become so embedded in Christian tradition that it is often used automatically, without much thought to its grammatical structure.
In Easter liturgies, for example, “He is risen” is used to mark the culmination of the church’s solemn remembrance of Jesus’ death. The passive construction highlights God’s sovereignty and the miraculous nature of the resurrection.
Preserving Tradition Through Language
Even as language evolves, religious traditions maintain the use of older phrases like “He is risen” to preserve their deep connection with the historical church. This continuity helps believers feel linked to centuries of tradition, uniting the past and the present through language.
Modern English Usage and Historical Context
Over time, English has evolved significantly, with many older forms of speech becoming less common in day-to-day conversation. This shift in language affects how we talk about religion as well. The phrase “He has risen” reflects this evolution, as it aligns more closely with contemporary English grammar and usage.
The Role of Modern English
Modern English tends to favor active constructions and the present perfect tense. As a result, “He has risen” is more intuitive for most English speakers today. This shift reflects broader trends in how we use language: clear, direct, and present-focused.
Balancing Tradition with Modernity
For those involved in ministry or liturgy, there is often a balance between preserving traditional phrases and adopting modern expressions. Using “He is risen” may resonate more deeply in formal church settings, while “He has risen” may feel more relatable in less formal environments or modern worship contexts.
Contemporary Society: “He Is Risen” in Popular Culture
In popular culture, “He is risen” has become a fixture of Easter services and events, but its use extends beyond church walls. Many Easter hymns and songs continue to feature this phrase, and it’s common to hear it during church processions and Easter celebrations.
On the other hand, “He has risen” is more frequently heard in contemporary evangelical circles and in settings outside the church. It feels more modern, and it has a broader appeal in discussions of resurrection that focus on the personal implications for believers.
The Ongoing Debate
The debate over which phrase is “correct” is less about language rules and more about tradition vs. modern usage. The underlying message—that Christ is alive—is clear in both forms. Ultimately, the choice between “He is risen” and “He has risen” depends on the tone and context of the statement.
Making the Right Choice: When to Use Each Phrase
So, when should you use “He is risen” and when is “He has risen” more appropriate? Here are a few guidelines:
- In formal or traditional settings (e.g., liturgical services, hymns, church celebrations), “He is risen” remains the preferred choice.
- In modern sermons or casual conversations (e.g., personal reflections or discussions about the resurrection), “He has risen” may be more appropriate.
- For a theological emphasis on divine action, “He is risen” can highlight God’s power in the resurrection.
- For a focus on the event’s completion and lasting significance, “He has risen” is ideal.
Conclusion: Language and Faith in Harmony
In the end, both “He is risen” and “He has risen” carry profound significance in Christian doctrine. The choice between the two phrases depends on the context, whether you’re embracing tradition or adopting modern language.
By understanding the theological implications and historical context of each phrase, we can ensure that our language reflects both the eternal truth of the resurrection and the way we communicate that truth today. As language evolves, so too does our understanding of the resurrection, but the message remains the same: Christ is alive, and that truth will continue to shape Christian faith for generations to come.
FAQs: “He Is Risen” vs. “He Has Risen”
1. Why is there a debate between “He is risen” and “He has risen”? The debate between “He is risen” and “He has risen” primarily revolves around the grammatical difference—“He is risen” uses the passive voice, while “He has risen” uses the present perfect tense. While both phrases express the same core meaning, the difference lies in style, historical use, and theological emphasis.
2. Which phrase is used more in modern Christian services? While “He is risen” is still the preferred phrase in traditional liturgies and hymns, “He has risen” is becoming more common in contemporary evangelical services and modern sermons. The shift is partly due to the use of the present perfect tense, which feels more natural in modern English.
3. Is there a theological difference between the two phrases? Yes, there are subtle theological implications. “He is risen” emphasizes the divine act of God raising Jesus, reflecting a sense of awe and divine power. “He has risen,” on the other hand, emphasizes the completion of the resurrection and its ongoing significance for believers today.
4. Does the Bible use both phrases? Yes, different Bible translations use different phrases. The King James Version (KJV) uses “He is risen,” which aligns with its formal, traditional language. Other translations like the New International Version (NIV) and English Standard Version (ESV) use “He has risen,” aligning with modern English grammar and usage.
5. Can I use either phrase in my own religious practice? Absolutely! Both phrases are theologically correct, and the choice depends on your context. Use “He is risen” in traditional or formal settings, such as liturgies or hymns. Use “He has risen” in more casual, modern settings or when you want to emphasize the completed action of the resurrection and its relevance today.
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