When discussing the resurrection of Jesus, two phrases frequently appear in conversation and song: "is it he is risen" and "he has risen." While they convey the same core event, their grammatical structures and usage contexts differ significantly. Understanding the distinction between these constructions is essential for precise theological discussion and liturgical accuracy.
Grammatical Analysis: Present Perfect vs. Simple Past
The phrase "he has risen" utilizes the present perfect tense, combining the auxiliary verb "has" with the past participle "risen." This tense is employed to describe an action that occurred in the past but holds present relevance or results. In contrast, "he is risen" employs the present tense of the verb "to be" paired with the past participle "risen." This structure, known as the passive voice, emphasizes the current state of being rather than the action itself.
Why "He Has Risen" is Often Preferred
From a strict grammatical standpoint, "he has risen" is generally the more accurate choice for narrating the historical event. It correctly positions the resurrection as a completed action with ongoing implications for the present. The simple past tense, "he rose," is also technically correct for recounting the sequence of events, but the present perfect highlights the continuing significance of the resurrection in the life of a believer.
The Liturgical and Theological Context
Despite the grammatical nuances, the phrase "is risen" holds a powerful place in liturgical tradition, particularly within Christian worship. The response "He is risen indeed!" to the proclamation "Christ is risen" is a cornerstone of the Easter liturgy. Here, the use of the present tense "is" conveys a theological declaration of present reality, affirming that the resurrection is not merely a historical fact but a current, living truth.
The proclamation "Christ is risen" is a present-tense assertion of current reality.
The response "He is risen" affirms the ongoing power and presence of the resurrected Christ.
Grammar serves theology, and the liturgy prioritizes the experiential truth over strict syntax.
Scriptural and Historical Usage
Examining the original biblical texts reveals a preference for the perfect tense in the underlying Greek. The verb used in passages like Luke 24:34 and 1 Corinthians 15:4 is often translated as "has been raised," emphasizing the completed action with present effects. This aligns with the grammatical preference for "he has risen" in modern English when describing the event itself.
Practical Application in Modern Language
In everyday conversation and theological writing, "he has risen" is the more precise and widely understood phrase. It clearly communicates the event and its grammatical relationship to the present. However, "is risen" should not be dismissed as incorrect; rather, it is a stylistic and devotional choice that echoes the language of worship and liturgy, where the focus is on the living Christ.
Conclusion: Context is Key
The choice between "is it he is risen" and "he has risen" ultimately depends on the context of the communication. For historical narration and standard English grammar, "he has risen" is the appropriate selection. In the context of prayer, hymnody, and liturgical response, the poetic and theological weight of "is risen" resonates more deeply. Both phrases point to the same glorious truth, and understanding their nuances enriches one's appreciation of the language of faith.
