Every word matters, especially when it comes to phrases that carry centuries of tradition and spiritual significance. Two expressions, “He is risen” and “He has risen”, have sparked countless questions among English speakers, writers, and Christian communities. Both phrases appear frequently during Easter, in sermons, hymns, and scriptures. But which one is truly correct? And why do we see both being used?
This article dives deep into the history, grammar, and practical usage of these phrases. By the end, you’ll understand not only the linguistic differences but also the cultural and historical context that shapes their use today.
Understanding the Phrases
When we examine “He is risen” and “He has risen”, we must first understand their meaning and historical roots. Although they may appear similar, each phrase emphasizes a different aspect of the event they describe: the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
He Is Risen
The phrase “He is risen” originates from older forms of English, specifically Middle English and Early Modern English. In this construction, “is” serves as an auxiliary verb indicating a completed action that has resulted in a new state. Essentially, it conveys that Jesus is now in the state of having risen, emphasizing the current condition rather than the action itself.
This phrase appears prominently in the King James Version of the Bible (1611), particularly in Matthew 28:6:
“He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.”
The enduring use of this phrasing in liturgy and hymns demonstrates its strong historical and religious significance.
He Has Risen
In modern English, “He has risen” is the present perfect tense of the verb “to rise.” It emphasizes the completed action—that Jesus rose from the dead. This phrasing is more common in contemporary English and casual speech.
For example, someone might say in a modern Easter greeting:
“Christ has risen indeed!”
The shift from “He is risen” to “He has risen” reflects the natural evolution of English grammar over time.
Grammar Deep Dive
Understanding the grammar behind these phrases helps clarify why both are correct in their respective contexts.
Tense Analysis
- He is risen: Uses an archaic form where the auxiliary verb “is” combines with the past participle “risen.” In Early Modern English, certain verbs, especially those indicating motion or change of state, used “be” as an auxiliary rather than “have.”
- He has risen: Modern English prefers “have” for forming the present perfect tense, signaling that the action was completed at some unspecified time in the past.
Subject-Verb Agreement
In “He is risen,” “He” is the subject, and “is risen” functions as the predicate. Although it seems unusual today, this construction was standard in older English. It focuses on the resulting state of the subject: Jesus is now risen.
In contrast, “He has risen” follows standard modern English subject-verb agreement, clearly highlighting the action rather than the state.
Action vs State Distinction
- Has risen → Action completed: Focuses on the event.
- Is risen → State achieved: Focuses on the resulting condition after the event.
This subtle difference influences not only grammar but also tone and spiritual emphasis in religious contexts.
Historical and Biblical Usage
The choice between “He is risen” and “He has risen” is not just grammatical—it’s historical. Various Bible translations and liturgical texts preserve different forms, reflecting both linguistic evolution and cultural preference.
Table of Biblical Usage
| Bible Translation | Phrase Used | Year | Notes |
| King James Version | He is risen | 1611 | Traditional, formal, liturgical |
| New International Version | He has risen | 1978 | Modern English for contemporary readers |
| Revised Standard Version | He is risen | 1952 | Maintains formal liturgical tone |
| English Standard Version | He has risen | 2001 | Modern readability emphasis |
This table illustrates how translations balance historical authenticity with readability for modern audiences.
Cultural Resonance
The phrase “He is risen” has persisted in hymns, Easter cards, and church greetings because of its poetic and liturgical resonance. Conversely, “He has risen” fits naturally into sermons, contemporary writing, and casual conversations, reflecting modern linguistic preferences.
Which Should You Use?
Choosing between these phrases depends on context, audience, and tone.
Contextual Guide
- Religious services or formal writing: “He is risen”
- Contemporary writing or informal communication: “He has risen”
Tone and Audience Considerations
- Traditionalists or liturgical settings often prefer “He is risen” for its historical and spiritual weight.
- Modern writers, journalists, and everyday English speakers lean toward “He has risen” for clarity and grammatical alignment with current usage.
Common Mistakes
- Using “He is risen” in casual conversation can sound outdated or overly formal.
- Using “He has risen” in formal liturgical texts may diminish the traditional resonance.
Tips: Always consider who you are addressing and the message’s purpose. A sermon or hymn may call for tradition; a newsletter or greeting card may prioritize clarity.
Common Misconceptions
Many people assume “He is risen” is grammatically incorrect. This is not true. It is simply an archaic form of English.
Likewise, some worry that “He has risen” is improper in religious contexts. In reality, this form modernizes language without altering theological meaning.
A key misunderstanding lies in the verb “to rise.” Historically, motion and change-of-state verbs often used “be” instead of “have”, which explains why “He is risen” feels unusual today but was standard centuries ago.
Practical Applications
Understanding these differences is more than an academic exercise. It has real-world applications, particularly for writers, preachers, and English learners.
Easter Cards and Greetings
- Traditional: “He is risen! Hallelujah!”
- Modern: “Christ has risen indeed! Celebrate His victory!”
Writing and Sermons
- Liturgical writings benefit from “He is risen” to preserve historical authenticity.
- Contemporary articles, blogs, and newsletters benefit from “He has risen” for readability.
Tips for Non-Native Speakers
- Recognize that both forms are correct.
- Match the phrase to context: historical or modern.
- Practice reading aloud to capture the tone and cadence.
Read More: Emasculate vs Demasculate: Understanding the Real Difference
Fun Facts and Bonus Insights
- Other archaic English phrases persist in religious texts: “thee,” “thou,” “art,” “hath.” They serve a similar purpose of emphasizing reverence and tradition.
- Timeline Diagram (Text Version):
Middle English (1100–1500): He is risen
Early Modern English (1500–1700): He is risen
King James Bible (1611): He is risen
Modern English (1900–present): He has risen
- These shifts demonstrate how English evolves while traditions often preserve older forms for ceremonial or spiritual reasons.
Conclusion
Both “He is risen” and “He has risen” are correct. The choice depends on context, audience, and tone.
- Use “He is risen” for formal, historical, or liturgical settings.
- Use “He has risen” for modern, casual, or everyday English.
Understanding the subtle differences between action and state, historical usage, and modern preference allows writers, preachers, and speakers to choose wisely. Next Easter, when you write or speak, you’ll know which phrase resonates best—and why.
Remember: Language is alive. Both forms celebrate the same profound truth: Jesus Christ’s resurrection. Your choice simply colors the way that truth is expressed.
