2 Corinthians 5:2

KJV

For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven:

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G2532}{G1063} in {G1722} this {G5129} we groan {G4727}, earnestly desiring {G1971} to be clothed upon {G1902} with our {G2257} house {G3613} which {G3588} is from {G1537} heaven {G3772}:

Complete Jewish Bible

For in this tent, our earthly body, we groan with desire to have around us the home from heaven that will be ours.

Berean Standard Bible

For in this tent we groan, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling,

American Standard Version

For verily in this we groan, longing to be clothed upon with our habitation which is from heaven:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Corinthians 5:2, the Apostle Paul articulates the deep, spiritual longing of believers who, while dwelling in their temporary earthly bodies, yearn for the future, glorified state. This "groaning" is not a complaint but an earnest desire to be fully enveloped by their eternal, heavenly dwelling, a transformation that signifies the ultimate triumph of life over mortality, promising a perfected existence in the presence of God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse stands as a direct continuation and elaboration of the profound theological truths introduced in [2 Corinthians 5:1](/2_corinthians/5-1 "2 Corinthians 5:1 - Our Earthly Tent and Heavenly Building"). Paul has just contrasted the perishable nature of the earthly "tent" (our physical body) with the eternal, divinely constructed "building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." The "groaning" of verse 2 is the natural, spiritual response to living in this temporary, decaying dwelling, burdened by its limitations and the effects of a fallen world. It expresses a fervent longing for the promised, permanent, and glorified body that awaits believers, a theme further developed in [2 Corinthians 5:3-4](/2_corinthians/5-3-4 "2 Corinthians 5:3-4 - Not Unclothed but Clothed Upon").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's audience in Corinth was familiar with the concept of temporary dwellings, such as tents, often used by travelers or soldiers, contrasting sharply with permanent, solid structures. This imagery would resonate with their understanding of life's transient nature. Furthermore, the Greco-Roman world, particularly some philosophical schools, often viewed the body as a prison for the soul, desiring a disembodied existence. Paul, however, presents a distinctively Christian hope: not disembodiment, but a perfected, immortal embodiment. This perspective aligns with the Jewish expectation of bodily resurrection, reinterpreted and fulfilled in Christ, as seen in [Daniel 12:2](/daniel/12-2 "Daniel 12:2 - Resurrection to Everlasting Life or Contempt"). The "house from heaven" thus speaks to a divine, rather than earthly, origin for this future glorious body, countering any purely philosophical or Gnostic leanings toward an anti-material worldview.
* **Key Themes:** The central theme in this passage is the **eschatological hope** of the believer, particularly concerning the **redemption and glorification of the body**. Paul emphasizes that while our current bodies are subject to decay and weakness, there is a certain and glorious future where believers will receive an incorruptible, spiritual body, as detailed in [1 Corinthians 15:42-44](/1_corinthians/15-42-44 "1 Corinthians 15:42-44 - The Resurrection Body"). This longing for a "house from heaven" highlights the **divine origin and nature** of this future dwelling, contrasting it with human frailty. It also underscores the **certainty of God's promise** for a perfected existence, free from the groaning and burdens of this present age, aligning with the broader New Testament teaching on the believer's future inheritance and the consummation of salvation at Christ's return, a hope that anchors believers amidst present suffering, as expressed in [Romans 8:23](/romans/8-23 "Romans 8:23 - The Groaning of Creation and Believers").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **groan (Greek, _stenázō'_):** This word signifies a deep, inward sighing or groaning, often expressing distress, sorrow, or intense longing. It is not a complaint of dissatisfaction but an expression of profound yearning for a desired future state. It conveys the burden and limitation experienced in the present body, anticipating relief and transformation.
* **earnestly desiring (Greek, _epipothéō'_):** This term intensifies the "groaning," indicating a strong, passionate, and even yearning desire. It implies a deep emotional craving for the possession or experience of something. In this context, it highlights the intense spiritual longing for the future, glorified body and the full realization of God's redemptive plan.
* **to be clothed upon (Greek, _ependýomai'_):** This unique compound verb is crucial. It means "to invest upon oneself" or "to put on over." It suggests a superimposition or absorption of the mortal by the immortal, rather than a mere shedding of the body (being "unclothed"). Paul clarifies this preference in [2 Corinthians 5:4](/2_corinthians/5-4 "2 Corinthians 5:4 - Not Unclothed but Clothed Upon"), expressing a desire not to be found naked (disembodied through death) but to be "clothed upon" with immortality, so that "mortality might be swallowed up of life."
* **house (Greek, _oikētḗrion'_):** This word refers to a residence or dwelling, used here both literally and figuratively. In the context of 2 Corinthians 5, it serves as a powerful metaphor for the body. The "earthly house" is our present mortal body, while the "house which is from heaven" refers to the future, glorified, and eternal body that believers will receive.
* **from heaven (Greek, _ek ouranós'_):** The preposition "from" (ek) denotes origin, emphasizing that this future "house" (body) is not of earthly construction or human effort but is divinely given, originating directly from God's heavenly realm. "Heaven" here signifies the abode of God, the source of ultimate blessedness and divine power, underscoring the supernatural and glorious nature of this promised transformation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For in this we groan":** Paul begins by explaining the reason for the believer's present experience. The "this" refers to our current earthly existence in a perishable body, as described in the preceding verse. The "groaning" is a deep, internal sigh, not of despair or complaint, but of a profound, almost involuntary yearning. It reflects the tension between the temporary, frail nature of our current physical dwelling and the eternal hope that resides within us. This groaning is a natural response to the limitations, sufferings, and decay inherent in our mortal bodies in a fallen world.
* **"earnestly desiring to be clothed upon":** This phrase intensifies the "groaning," revealing it as a fervent, passionate longing. The metaphor of "clothed upon" is central. It suggests a desire for the immortal, glorified body to be put on over or to completely absorb the mortal body, rather than a mere shedding or discarding of the physical form. This indicates a desire for transformation and perfection of the body, not its annihilation. It speaks to the Christian hope of a full, embodied existence in eternity, transcending the current limitations.
* **"with our house which is from heaven":** This clause specifies the object of the earnest desire: "our house which is from heaven." The "house" is a metaphor for the future, glorified body. The crucial addition "which is from heaven" emphasizes its divine origin and supernatural quality. This future body is not merely an improved version of our current one but a divinely given, eternal dwelling, perfectly suited for life in God's presence. It is a gift from God, originating from the heavenly realm, signifying its incorruptible and glorious nature.

#### Literary Devices
Paul masterfully employs **Metaphor** throughout this passage, likening the earthly body to a "tent" or "earthly house" and the future glorified body to a "building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens," and here, "our house which is from heaven." This creates a vivid contrast between the temporary and the eternal, the perishable and the imperishable. The concept of "groaning" serves as a powerful **Personification** of the human spirit's deep yearning, giving voice to an internal spiritual ache. The phrase "to be clothed upon" is a striking **Imagery** that conveys the idea of an ultimate transformation where mortality is not merely discarded but absorbed and overcome by immortality, a concept Paul further develops in [1 Corinthians 15:53-54](/1_corinthians/15-53-54 "1 Corinthians 15:53-54 - Mortality Swallowed Up by Life"). This imagery suggests a seamless transition and a complete victory of life over death.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's articulation of the believer's "groaning" and earnest desire for a "house from heaven" profoundly connects with the broader biblical narrative of creation, fall, and redemption. It underscores the Christian understanding of the human person as an embodied soul, not merely a spirit trapped in a body. The longing is not for disembodiment, but for a perfected embodiment, free from the curse of sin and decay. This future body, originating "from heaven," signifies God's complete and ultimate redemption, extending even to our physical being. It assures believers that their ultimate hope is not in the preservation of this fleeting earthly life but in the glorious, incorruptible future God has prepared, where the perishable will put on the imperishable, and the mortal will put on immortality.

* [Romans 8:23](/romans/8-23 "Romans 8:23 - The Redemption of Our Bodies")
* [1 Corinthians 15:53-54](/1_corinthians/15-53-54 "1 Corinthians 15:53-54 - The Triumph Over Death")
* [Philippians 3:20-21](/philippians/3-20-21 "Philippians 3:20-21 - Our Heavenly Citizenship and Transformed Bodies")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Corinthians 5:2 offers profound comfort and a vital eternal perspective for believers navigating the realities of a fallen world. In a world marked by physical decay, suffering, and the inevitability of death, this verse reminds us that our present struggles and limitations are temporary. Our ultimate hope is not in the fleeting preservation of this earthly life, but in the glorious, eternal future God has prepared for those in Christ. This "groaning" is a holy discontent, a Spirit-empowered yearning that directs our gaze heavenward, reminding us that our true and lasting home, our perfected existence, is "from heaven." It encourages us to live with an eternal mindset, prioritizing what truly lasts, finding resilience and steadfastness in faith, knowing that a perfect, incorruptible body awaits, free from the burdens of this age. This hope does not detach us from present realities but empowers us to face them with courage, knowing our ultimate destination.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What aspects of your current "earthly tent" cause you to "groan" or long for transformation?**
* **How does the promise of a "house which is from heaven" shape your perspective on physical suffering, aging, or death?**
* **In what ways can an "earnest desire" for our future glorified state motivate us to live more faithfully and purposefully in the present?**

### FAQ
**What does Paul mean by "groan" in this verse?**

Answer: When Paul says "we groan," he is describing a deep, inward sighing or yearning, not a complaint born of despair or bitterness. It's a profound expression of the human spirit's longing for something better, something eternal, while still experiencing the limitations, weaknesses, and decay of the mortal body in a fallen world. This groaning is an anticipation of the full redemption that awaits believers, a spiritual ache for the perfected, immortal body that God has promised. It aligns with the groaning of creation itself, awaiting its liberation, as described in [Romans 8:22-23](/romans/8-22-23 "Romans 8:22-23 - The Groaning of Creation and Believers").

**Is Paul desiring to be disembodied or to escape the body entirely?**

Answer: No, Paul is not expressing a desire for disembodiment or the annihilation of the body. In fact, he clarifies this in [2 Corinthians 5:4](/2_corinthians/5-4 "2 Corinthians 5:4 - Not Unclothed but Clothed Upon"), stating that he does not wish to be "unclothed" (meaning, to be disembodied through death), but rather "clothed upon" with the heavenly dwelling. This signifies a desire for the mortal body to be transformed and absorbed by the immortal, glorified body, so that "mortality might be swallowed up of life." The Christian hope, unlike some ancient philosophies, is not an escape from the body but its redemption and glorification, leading to a perfected, embodied existence in eternity.

**What is the "house which is from heaven"?**

Answer: The "house which is from heaven" is a powerful metaphor for the future, glorified body that believers will receive at the resurrection. It is contrasted with the "earthly house" or "tent" mentioned in [2 Corinthians 5:1](/2_corinthians/5-1 "2 Corinthians 5:1 - Our Earthly Tent and Heavenly Building"), which refers to our present perishable physical body. The phrase "from heaven" emphasizes that this future body is not of human origin or earthly construction; rather, it is a divine gift, supernaturally given by God, eternal, incorruptible, and perfectly suited for life in His presence. It represents the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive work in us, transforming us into Christ's likeness, as anticipated in [Philippians 3:21](/philippians/3-21 "Philippians 3:21 - Christ Will Transform Our Lowly Body").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The "groaning" of 2 Corinthians 5:2 finds its ultimate answer and fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Our earnest desire to be "clothed upon with our house which is from heaven" is not a mere wish but a certain hope grounded in Christ's resurrection. He is the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep, demonstrating the pattern for our future glorified bodies ([1 Corinthians 15:20](/1_corinthians/15-20 "1 Corinthians 15:20 - Christ, the Firstfruits")). Just as Christ's resurrected body transcended earthly limitations while retaining continuity with His earthly body, so too will our "house from heaven" be a perfected, immortal version of our current selves, made fit for eternity. This transformation is assured because we are "in Christ," united with Him in His death and resurrection ([Romans 6:5](/romans/6-5 "Romans 6:5 - United with Christ in Resurrection")). Our longing is for the day when our mortal bodies will be conformed to His glorious body ([Philippians 3:21](/philippians/3-21 "Philippians 3:21 - Christ Will Transform Our Lowly Body")), a promise secured by the indwelling Spirit who is the down payment of our inheritance ([Ephesians 1:13-14](/ephesians/1-13-14 "Ephesians 1:13-14 - The Seal of the Holy Spirit")). Thus, our groaning is a Spirit-empowered anticipation of the full and final redemption wrought by Christ, where death is swallowed up in victory and we are forever with the Lord ([1 Thessalonians 4:17](/1_thessalonians/4-17 "1 Thessalonians 4:17 - Forever with the Lord")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Romans 8:23

And not only [they], but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, [to wit], the redemption of our body.

1 Corinthians 15:53

For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal [must] put on immortality.

1 Corinthians 15:54

So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

Philippians 1:23

For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:

Romans 7:24

O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?

2 Corinthians 5:3

If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked.

2 Corinthians 5:4

For we that are in [this] tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life.