The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of the Christian faith. Every Easter, Christians across the globe celebrate this pivotal event with joy, reflection, and reverence. However, when it comes to the phrase that describes this miraculous moment—”He is risen” vs. “He has risen”—there’s some debate. Is one more grammatically correct than the other?
Does it matter in the grand scheme of things? In this article, we’ll explore the nuances of these two phrases, their biblical and theological significance, and when and why each might be used in worship, prayer, and everyday conversations.
The Meaning Behind the Phrase: “He Is Risen” vs. “He Has Risen”
Before diving into the grammatical intricacies and theological implications, let’s start with the fundamental meaning behind both expressions.
Both phrases refer to the resurrection of Jesus Christ, but they slightly differ in how they present the event.
- “He is risen” is often interpreted as a statement of ongoing action. It suggests that the resurrection is not merely a past event but continues to have significance today. It emphasizes the state of Christ after resurrection—He is risen. This phrasing carries a sense of permanence.
- “He has risen” refers to the completed action of the resurrection. It focuses on the fact that Jesus has risen from the dead, highlighting the event as something that has occurred, once and for all. It centers on the action of the resurrection.
Both phrases are meant to convey the same theological truth—that Jesus overcame death—but the subtle differences in tense reflect slightly different perspectives on that truth.
Grammatical Breakdown: “He Is Risen” vs. “He Has Risen”
Present Tense vs. Present Perfect
Understanding the grammatical structure of each phrase can help clarify their differences. In English grammar, verb tenses convey the time of an action and its completion.
- Present Tense (“He is risen”): This phrasing uses a passive construction and focuses on the current state of Christ after resurrection. This version emphasizes the continuity of the resurrection. Christ is not just risen once; He remains risen, present, and active today.
- Present Perfect Tense (“He has risen”): This structure emphasizes the completed action of the resurrection. It highlights that the action of rising from the dead has been fully completed, and the result of that action is still relevant today. The focus is on the result of the resurrection, not the ongoing state.
Comparison of Similar Phrases
English is full of phrases with similar structures. Consider the following comparisons:
| Phrasing | Tense | Focus | Example |
| He is gone | Present tense | Ongoing state of absence | She is gone. |
| He has gone | Present perfect tense | Completed action of leaving | He has gone to work. |
| He is risen | Present tense | Ongoing state of resurrection | Christ is risen today. |
| He has risen | Present perfect tense | Completed resurrection action | Christ has risen! |
In these examples, “He is gone” focuses on the state of absence, while “He has gone” focuses on the act of leaving.
Religious and Cultural Significance of the Phrasing
The way Christians speak about the resurrection reflects deep theological beliefs, and the choice of phrasing is not just a matter of grammar but tradition. The phrase “He is risen” holds particular weight in Christian liturgical practices.
For centuries, “He is risen” has been used in Easter liturgies across many Christian denominations. The Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Protestant traditions alike repeat this phrase to affirm their belief that Christ’s resurrection is not a mere event of the past, but something that has lasting significance and power in the present.
For example, in the Eastern Orthodox Church, it is customary to say “Christ is risen!” as a greeting during the Easter season, to which the response is “Truly, He is risen!” This affirmation is more than just a grammatical declaration; it is an expression of the living power of Christ, a declaration of faith that transcends time.
The Role of Language in Worship
Language plays a crucial role in worship and prayer. The phrases chosen to describe the resurrection are not just about communicating an event but about conveying belief and relationship. For many, “He is risen” is a powerful declaration that continues to shape their daily lives, reinforcing the idea that Jesus’ victory over death is an eternal truth.
Scriptural Evidence and Translations: The Bible and the Phrasing
In studying this phrase, we must also examine its roots in the Bible. Different translations of the New Testament use varying words to describe Jesus’ resurrection, which has influenced the popularity of both phrases.
Greek Origins
The phrase “He is risen” comes from the Greek verb egeiro (ἐγείρω), which means to raise up, awaken, or rise. In many biblical translations, such as the King James Version (KJV), the passive form is used: “He is risen.” This translation emphasizes the ongoing state of Christ’s resurrection, pointing to His continual victory over death.
On the other hand, the NIV (New International Version) and ESV (English Standard Version) prefer using the present perfect tense: “He has risen.” These translations aim to reflect the completion of the event.
Read More: Emasculate vs. Demasculate: What’s the Real Difference?
Bible Translation Comparisons
| Translation | Phrase Used | Tense | Explanation |
| King James (KJV) | He is risen | Present tense | Emphasizes ongoing victory and eternal state of resurrection |
| NIV | He has risen | Present perfect | Focuses on the completed action of the resurrection |
| ESV | He has risen | Present perfect | Same as NIV, highlighting the fulfillment of the resurrection |
Impact of the King James Bible
The King James Bible, published in 1611, has greatly influenced English-speaking Christianity. The phrasing “He is risen” became embedded in liturgies, hymns, and prayers due to its widespread use in this version. Even today, many Christians prefer the traditional wording of the KJV, which continues to shape worship practices and theological reflections.
Theological Implications of Each Phrase
The difference in tense may seem subtle, but it carries distinct theological implications.
- “He is risen”: This declaration underscores the living presence of Christ today. It is a continuous affirmation that Jesus’ resurrection was not a one-time event but an ongoing reality. For many believers, this phrasing reminds them that Christ’s victory over death is not confined to a moment in history but is a present truth that impacts their lives today.
- “He has risen”: This version places emphasis on the historical event of the resurrection, portraying it as a completed act. It emphasizes the fulfillment of prophecy and the accomplishment of God’s plan for salvation. It suggests that Jesus’ rising from the dead was a definitive moment in time that has changed the course of history.
Modern Usage: When to Use “He Is Risen” or “He Has Risen”
So, when should you use “He is risen” vs. “He has risen”? The answer largely depends on context and the tone you want to convey.
Liturgical Context
- “He is risen” is the preferred phrasing in traditional Christian liturgy, especially during Easter services. It is often used in hymns, prayers, and declarations because it emphasizes the ongoing significance of the resurrection.
- “He has risen” might be used more in sermons, especially those focusing on the historical aspect of Christ’s death and resurrection. This phrasing underscores the completed act of resurrection.
Personal Use
- In personal reflection or casual conversation, either phrase can be used. However, if you’re speaking about Christ’s resurrection in the present tense, “He is risen” might convey a more personal, active relationship with the risen Christ.
- If you’re talking about the historical event, “He has risen” may be a more fitting choice.
Why “He Is Risen” Remains Popular: Tradition, Liturgy, and Belief
The phrase “He is risen” has endured through centuries, particularly in the liturgical practices of the church. It’s a phrase steeped in tradition, evoking a sense of continuity, and emphasizing the living reality of Christ’s resurrection. It is an expression that speaks not just of a past event but of a living Christ.
For millions, Easter greetings like “Christ is risen!” and the response “Truly, He is risen!” remain central to celebrating Christ’s victory over death. The power of these words lies not only in their historical significance but in their ability to affirm faith and hope today.
The Case for “He Has Risen” in Modern Understanding
As language evolves, so does the way we express our beliefs. “He has risen” may resonate more with modern Christians who prefer clearer, simpler language. This phrasing emphasizes the completed nature of the resurrection—Christ’s work is finished, and salvation is secured.
Moreover, the present perfect tense might be more easily understood by those unfamiliar with liturgical language, making “He has risen” a more accessible option for some worshippers.
Conclusion: Striking the Right Balance Between Tradition and Clarity
In the end, both “He is risen” and “He has risen” are grammatically correct and theologically meaningful. Which one you choose to use depends on the context, the tone you want to set, and the tradition you follow.
Both phrases declare the same central truth: that Christ has triumphed over death, offering hope and salvation to all who believe in Him. Whether you use “He is risen” to highlight Christ’s ongoing victory or “He has risen” to emphasize the completion of His mission, both serve to proclaim the Good News.
FAQs: “He Is Risen” vs. “He Has Risen”
1. Which phrase is more grammatically correct: “He is risen” or “He has risen”?
Both phrases are grammatically correct but have different emphases. “He is risen” is an older, more traditional phrase that uses a passive construction to highlight Jesus’ ongoing state of resurrection. “He has risen” is in the present perfect tense, which emphasizes the completed action of the resurrection.
2. Why do people say “He is risen” instead of “He has risen”?
The phrase “He is risen” is rooted in liturgical tradition, especially from translations like the King James Bible (KJV). It emphasizes that Jesus remains risen and victorious over death. Many Christian churches continue to use this phrase in Easter services, hymns, and greetings because of its theological depth.
3. What does “He is risen” mean?
“He is risen” means that Jesus has been raised from the dead and remains in that state. It is a declaration that His resurrection is not just a past event but an ongoing reality.
4. What does “He has risen” mean?
“He has risen” focuses on the action of Jesus rising from the dead. It emphasizes that the resurrection has already happened and is a completed event.
5. Which Bible translations use “He is risen” vs. “He has risen”?
| Bible Translation | Phrase Used | Tense |
| King James Version (KJV) | He is risen | Present Passive |
| New International Version (NIV) | He has risen | Present Perfect |
| English Standard Version (ESV) | He has risen | Present Perfect |
| New American Standard Bible (NASB) | He has risen | Present Perfect |
