Language, especially when tied to religious or historical contexts, often sparks questions about correctness and meaning.
One such question arises with the phrases “He is risen” and “He has risen.” Are they interchangeable? Is one more correct than the other?
Confused between “He is risen” and “He has risen”? Discover their grammatical, theological, and historical differences, and learn when to use each phrase correctly.
In this article, we’ll explore the grammatical, theological, and historical dimensions of these phrases to clarify their usage and implications.
Understanding the Phrase “He Is Risen”
The phrase “He is risen” is deeply rooted in Christian tradition, particularly as an Easter proclamation celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It’s a declaration of victory, affirming that Jesus has conquered death.
Grammatically, “He is risen” uses an older form of English where the verb “is” functions as an auxiliary verb, indicating a state or condition.
This usage was common in Early Modern English but has largely fallen out of favor in contemporary grammar, where “has” is now standard.
Key Characteristics:
- Historical Grammar: “Is risen” reflects a state rather than an action, implying that Jesus exists in a risen state.
- Liturgical Use: The phrase is often used in church services, hymns, and religious texts, emphasizing its traditional significance.
- Emotive Power: Many Christians prefer “He is risen” for its poetic and reverent tone.
The Grammatical Nuances of “He Has Risen”
In contrast, “He has risen” aligns with modern English grammar. Here, the present perfect tense (using has as an auxiliary verb) highlights the action of rising from the dead, completed in the past but with ongoing significance.
Why It’s Grammatically Correct:
- Present Perfect Tense: This tense connects a past action with its relevance in the present. “He has risen” signifies that Jesus rose from the dead and continues to live.
- Clarity in Modern English: Contemporary readers and speakers are more familiar with this construction, making it feel more natural.
- Action-Oriented Meaning: The phrase emphasizes the completed act of resurrection.
The Influence of Religious Tradition on Language
Religious tradition often preserves linguistic forms that may seem outdated in modern usage. “He is risen” is a prime example. This phrase comes from older Bible translations like the King James Version (1611), which heavily influenced liturgical language.
Why Tradition Matters:
- Cultural Resonance: Traditional phrases carry emotional and spiritual weight for many believers.
- Liturgical Consistency: Churches often retain older language to maintain continuity with historical practices.
- Symbolic Meaning: The use of “is” instead of “has” shifts the focus from the act of rising to the ongoing state of being risen.
The Scriptural Evidence in Different Translations
Examining various Bible translations helps illuminate the origins and usage of these phrases.
Examples from Key Translations:
- King James Version (KJV): “He is not here: for he is risen, as he said.” (Matthew 28:6)
- New International Version (NIV): “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.” (Matthew 28:6)
- English Standard Version (ESV): “He is not here, for he has risen, as he said.” (Matthew 28:6)
Insights from the Comparison:
- Older translations like the KJV use “is risen” to reflect the linguistic norms of their time.
- Modern translations prefer “has risen” for grammatical clarity while retaining the original meaning.
- Both phrases communicate the same theological truth: the resurrection of Christ.
Theological Implications of the Phrase’s Variations
The choice between “He is risen” and “He has risen” carries subtle theological nuances.
- “He is risen” emphasizes the eternal and ongoing nature of Jesus’ resurrection. It’s not just a past event but a present reality.
- “He has risen” focuses on the historical act of the resurrection, highlighting its role as a pivotal moment in Christian belief.
Neither phrase is theologically incorrect, but the emphasis differs slightly: one leans toward the eternal state, while the other underscores the completed act.
Modern English Usage and Historical Context
In contemporary English, “He has risen” aligns with standard grammatical norms. However, “He is risen” endures as a liturgical and symbolic expression, particularly during Easter celebrations.
A Shift in Language:
- The auxiliary “is” was commonly used with past participles in earlier forms of English.
- Over time, this structure faded, replaced by “has” in most contexts.
- Religious language often resists change, preserving forms like “He is risen” for their historical and spiritual significance.
“He Is Risen” in Contemporary Society
Even in a modern context, “He is risen” remains a powerful and widely recognized phrase. It appears in:
- Easter Greetings: Churches and individuals use it as a joyful proclamation during the Easter season.
- Hymns and Songs: Many traditional hymns incorporate the phrase, reinforcing its connection to worship.
- Cultural References: The phrase often appears in literature, art, and media as a symbol of hope and renewal.
Despite its archaic grammar, “He is risen” continues to resonate deeply with many Christians worldwide.
Making the Right Choice: When to Use Each Phrase
So, how do you decide whether to use “He is risen” or “He has risen”?
Practical Guidelines:
- Formal or Religious Contexts: Use “He is risen” for traditional or liturgical settings, such as church services or religious writings.
- Everyday Conversations or Writing: Opt for “He has risen” in modern, casual communication for grammatical clarity.
- Audience Consideration: Consider who will read or hear your words. For a general audience, “He has risen” might feel more natural, while “He is risen” appeals to those familiar with religious traditions.
FAQs
What is the difference between “He is risen” and “He has risen”?
“He is risen” reflects an older English style emphasizing the state of being risen, while “He has risen” uses modern grammar to highlight the completed action of rising.
Is “He is risen” grammatically correct?
Yes, it’s correct but archaic. It reflects Early Modern English usage, often preserved in religious contexts like Easter liturgies.
Why is “He is risen” used in churches?
Religious tradition retains older linguistic forms to emphasize the eternal state of Christ’s resurrection, making “He is risen” a powerful liturgical expression.
Should I use “He has risen” in modern writing?
Yes, for clarity in contemporary English, “He has risen” is preferred, especially in casual or non-religious contexts.
Which Bible translations use “He is risen” and “He has risen”?
The King James Version (KJV) uses “He is risen,” while modern translations like the NIV and ESV favor “He has risen.” Both express the same theological truth.
Conclusion
Both “He is risen” and “He has risen” are correct, but their usage depends on context, audience, and intent.
While “He has risen” reflects modern grammatical norms, “He is risen” carries profound traditional and theological significance.
Understanding the nuances of these phrases allows us to appreciate their depth and choose the right one for any situation. Whether you’re quoting scripture, writing an Easter greeting, or simply exploring language, both phrases remind us of the enduring power of words and their connection to faith and history.
