The phrase “He Is Risen” or “He Has Risen” – Which is Correct? Often sparks interest during Easter and in church settings where this language is used with deep reverence and emotion. As someone who has spent years attending seasonal services and later studied grammar closely, I noticed both the modern and traditional sides of this phrase. The English behind it isn’t just academic—it’s alive in real-world conversations, shaped by context and faith. Through reading, discussion with native speakers, and observing religious use, it became clear that both “He is risen” and “He has risen” reflect something meaningful but different in tone and intent.
The older form, often found in religious texts, is formal, almost poetic, and deeply rooted in tradition. It serves more spiritual purposes, particularly when announcing that Jesus has risen from the dead. Though it doesn’t follow today’s modern grammar rules, its beauty lies in preserving a sacred voice, especially during religious observances. In contrast, the modern expression uses the past perfect tense to show a completed action in the past. This structure is logical, widely taught, and far more common in everyday conversation and written communication. The version you choose depends not just on rules, but on your setting and intent.
As someone who teaches learners from different backgrounds, I’ve seen how easy it is to feel confused by these variations. In casual speaking, such as with a friend, the modern form often feels natural. But for liturgical or symbolic moments, the traditional form remains powerful. That choice truly shows how language is a living, adaptable force—it grapples with its history, evolves, and reflects both sacred and secular communication. This is why, when we talk about grammar and faith, understanding the rhythm, nature, and purpose of each expression matters.
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is central to Christian belief, and the phrase often used to celebrate it is: “He is risen.” But modern English grammar seems to suggest that we should say “He has risen” instead. So, which one is grammatically correct? And does context change the answer? This article dives deep into the grammar, theology, biblical translations, and cultural impact of both expressions to give you a complete and accurate understanding.
The Core Question: “He Is Risen” vs. “He Has Risen”
When we compare “He is risen” with “He has risen,” the difference might seem small, but it touches on deep questions of grammar, tradition, and meaning.
- “He is risen” uses the present perfect tense with “be” as an auxiliary verb – a form common in archaic English.
- “He has risen” uses the present perfect tense with “have”, which is standard in modern English.
Despite these differences, both phrases communicate the resurrection event, just with different grammatical histories. Understanding these nuances helps in choosing the right phrase for the right context.
Is “He Is Risen” Grammatically Correct in Modern English?
Short answer: Not by today’s grammar standards. But it’s still widely accepted in specific contexts.
In older English (like the kind used in the King James Bible), certain verbs used “be” as an auxiliary verb to form the perfect tense. These are known as intransitive verbs of motion or change of state, such as:
- “He is gone.”
- “She is come.”
- “They are departed.”
Today, however, English speakers almost exclusively use “have” instead of “be” in such constructions.
“He is risen” = present perfect passive with archaic “be” auxiliary.
This means “He is risen” is grammatically outdated, but not incorrect within historical or religious usage.
“He Has Risen”: Modern Grammar in Action
According to modern grammar rules, “He has risen” is the correct form using the present perfect tense:
- Subject: He
- Auxiliary verb: has
- Past participle: risen
It indicates that the action has been completed but still has present relevance.
For example:
- “Jesus has risen from the dead, and the tomb is empty.”
- “She has arrived just in time.”
This form is clear, modern, and consistent with standard grammatical conventions.
Biblical Roots: Why “He Is Risen” Is Still Used Today
The phrase “He is risen” comes directly from Matthew 28:6 (KJV):
“He is not here, for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.”
This wording became deeply embedded in Christian liturgy, hymns, and Easter greetings.
Other translations render it differently:
| Translation | Phrase Used | Year |
| KJV | He is risen | 1611 |
| NIV | He has risen | 1978/2011 |
| ESV | He has risen | 2001 |
| NLT | He has risen | 1996 |
| NASB | He has risen | 1971/1995 |
As seen in the table, modern translations prefer “has risen”, aligning with contemporary grammar.
Language and Liturgy: The Influence of Religious Tradition
Church traditions often preserve older forms of language for ritualistic and emotional impact. This is why “He is risen” continues to be the standard during Easter services and liturgical greetings.
Examples:
- Easter Call & Response:
- Leader: He is risen!
- Congregation: He is risen indeed!
- Hymns and songs:
- “He is risen! He is risen! Tell it out with joyful voice…”
Even if it feels grammatically outdated, this phrase evokes a sacred atmosphere and connects believers to centuries of tradition.
Does Grammar Change in Religious Contexts?
Yes, and it’s intentional. In sacred texts and religious rituals, archaic or formal grammar is often retained to preserve reverence, poetic rhythm, and historical continuity.
Other examples:
- “Hallowed be thy name” (instead of “your”)
- “Thou art with me” (instead of “You are with me”)
These forms are not “wrong” — they’re liturgical English, used in specific spiritual contexts.
Quote: “Liturgical language is deliberately conservative to safeguard the timelessness of truth.” — Dr. Leland Ryken, Professor of English, Wheaton College
When Should You Say “He Is Risen” vs. “He Has Risen”?
Use this simple guide to choose the right phrase:
| Context | Preferred Phrase | Why |
| Church service | He is risen | Tradition and scriptural echo |
| Easter greeting | He is risen | Cultural and liturgical continuity |
| Academic writing | He has risen | Conforms to modern grammar |
| Bible study summary | He has risen | Accurate to modern interpretation |
| Religious poetry/song | He is risen | Maintains traditional rhythm and style |
Pro Tip: When writing for a general audience, “He has risen” is safer. In religious or Easter-related content, “He is risen” connects more deeply.
How Modern Translations Handle the Phrase
Bible translation is both an art and a science. Translators aim to balance faithfulness to original texts with clarity for modern readers.
Compare these translations of Matthew 28:6:
| Version | Phrase |
| KJV | He is risen |
| ESV | He has risen |
| NLT | He has risen, just as he said |
| MSG | He’s risen, just as he said |
| CSB | He has been resurrected |
While the message remains the same, modern grammar is prioritized in newer translations.
Historical Grammar: A Brief Look at “Be” Verbs in Past Participles
In Middle and Early Modern English, verbs like “come,” “go,” and “rise” often used “be” as the auxiliary verb.
Examples:
- “He is come from the field.”
- “They are gone already.”
- “Christ is risen today.”
This usage began to fade after the 18th century, replaced by the “have” auxiliary in most cases. Still, older forms survived in religious texts, poetry, and formal speech.
Impact on Worship and Personal Faith Expression
Saying “He is risen” often stirs more than grammatical reflection—it awakens a deep emotional and spiritual connection.
- Personal testimony: For many, it’s a moment of joy and triumph.
- Corporate worship: The phrase unifies worshippers in a shared response.
- Cultural identity: It links people across denominations, languages, and time.
“Some phrases are sacred not because of how they’re structured, but because of what they’ve survived.” — Unknown.
What English Teachers & Grammar Experts Say
Grammarians typically acknowledge both forms, with emphasis on context:
Patricia O’Connor, author of Woe Is I: “‘He is risen’ is a beautiful survivor of old English constructions. In secular settings, ‘He has risen’ makes more sense grammatically.”
Paul Brians, Professor Emeritus, WSU: “It’s not wrong; it’s poetic and liturgical. Use it where it belongs.”
Modern grammar guides typically recommend “has risen” unless you’re using the phrase in a religious or historical context.
Common Misconceptions and Misuses
- Myth: “He is risen” is wrong. ❌
- Truth: It’s correct within a traditional, liturgical setting.
- Myth: “He has risen” is less powerful. ❌
- Truth: Both are powerful; it depends on how and where they’re used.
- Mistake Example:
- ❌ “He is risen from his nap.” (Sounds archaic or awkward)
- ✅ “He has risen from his nap.” (Grammatically smooth)
“He Is Risen” in Pop Culture and Media
Despite its archaic structure, “He is risen” appears in films, songs, social media posts, and even memes every Easter.
- Instagram hashtags: #HeIsRisen – used in over 5 million posts during Easter.
- Films: The Passion of the Christ, Risen (2016) both feature the phrase.
- Books: Christian devotionals and Easter children’s books often retain this classic line.
It acts as a signal of faith, tradition, and celebration, even for younger generations.
Recap: Which Should You Use—and When?
Here’s a quick visual guide:
| Usage Scenario | Use “He Is Risen” | Use “He Has Risen” |
| Easter greeting cards | ✅ | |
| Church bulletin headlines | ✅ | |
| Academic essays | ✅ | |
| Bible commentary blogs | ✅ | |
| Sermons | ✅ | ✅ |
Bottom line: Both are correct depending on your purpose and audience.
Bonus: Related Grammar Questions You Might Be Asking
At School or In School? Preposition Clarity with Examples
- “At school” = location. Ex: “She is at school.”
- “In school” = enrolled. Ex: “He is in school this semester.”
I Too or I, Too? Mastering Comma Usage in Phrases
- Use a comma when “too” interrupts the sentence.
- Ex: “I, too, love that hymn.”
Capitalizing Days and Months: What’s the Rule?
- Always capitalize: Monday, Easter, April, etc.
- Do not capitalize seasons unless part of a title.
What Is First Person? Understanding Narrative Voice
- First person: “I,” “we”
- Used in: testimony, blogs, journaling
How Prepositions Work: “At,” “In,” and “On” Simplified
- At = point. Ex: “at 5 PM”
- In = enclosed. Ex: “in the house”
- On = surface. Ex: “on the table”
Conclusion:
Understanding the difference between “He Is Risen” and “He Has Risen” comes down to both grammar and tradition. While “He has risen” follows standard modern English rules as a present perfect construction, “He is risen” reflects an older grammatical structure that has been preserved in religious and literary contexts. Over time, the latter has become deeply rooted in cultural and spiritual expression, especially in Christian traditions.
In everyday usage, “he has risen” may sound more natural and grammatically familiar. However, “he is risen” carries a timeless, symbolic tone that connects language with history and faith. Choosing between them depends on your purpose—whether you aim for grammatical precision or emotional and cultural resonance. By understanding both forms, you can use each phrase confidently and appropriately in the right context.
Understanding the history and structure behind these phrases deepens not only our grammatical awareness but also our appreciation for how language carries faith across generations. Whether you’re writing an Easter card, giving a sermon, or teaching a class, the right choice depends on your audience, intent, and tone.
FAQs
What is the difference between “He Is Risen” and “He Has Risen”?
“He has risen” is grammatically standard in modern English, using the present perfect tense. “He is risen” comes from older English where “be” was used as an auxiliary verb. Today, “he is risen” is mostly used in religious contexts, while “he has risen” fits general communication.
Is “He Is Risen” grammatically correct?
Yes, but it reflects an older form of English. Historically, verbs of movement often used “be” instead of “have.” While it may sound unusual in everyday speech, it remains correct in traditional and religious usage.
Why is “He Is Risen” commonly used in Christianity?
“He is risen” has been preserved in religious texts and traditions for centuries. Its continued use connects modern speakers with historical expressions of faith, especially during celebrations like Easter.
Can I use “He Has Risen” instead?
Yes, “he has risen” is perfectly correct and widely accepted in modern English. It’s often preferred in general writing or conversation where traditional phrasing is not required.
Which phrase is more formal?
“He is risen” often feels more formal due to its historical and religious tone. “He has risen” is neutral and suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
Is one phrase more correct than the other?
Both are correct, but they serve different purposes. “He has risen” follows modern grammar rules, while “he is risen” reflects older linguistic patterns.
Where would I commonly hear “He Is Risen”?
You’ll most often hear it in religious services, hymns, or biblical readings. It is especially associated with Easter celebrations in Christian communities.
Why does “He Is Risen” sound unusual today?
Modern English typically uses “have” as the auxiliary verb for perfect tenses. Since “be” is no longer used this way, “he is risen” can sound outdated outside of traditional contexts.
Can I use both phrases in writing?
Yes, but choose based on context. Use “he is risen” for religious or historical tone, and “he has risen” for clarity and modern style.
Which phrase should learners of English use?
Learners should primarily use “he has risen” since it follows current grammar rules. Understanding “he is risen” is still helpful for recognizing cultural and literary usage.
