The Greek word exanástasis, represented by G1815, means resurrection, defined as "a rising from death." It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, highlighting its specific and powerful application.
The sole use of G1815 is found in the writings of the apostle Paul in Philippians 3:11. He expresses a deep longing, stating, "If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead." This context frames the concept not as a passive event, but as the ultimate goal of his faith and striving, a prize to be earnestly pursued.
Several related words from its single scriptural context help clarify the meaning of G1815:
- G1513 eí pōs (if by any means): This term introduces a sense of earnest striving and hope, indicating that the goal is pursued with great effort and desire (Philippians 3:11, Romans 1:10).
- G2658 katantáō (attain, come): This word signifies arriving at a destination. It is used for reaching cities like Ephesus Acts 18:19 and for arriving at spiritual maturity Ephesians 4:13, underscoring the resurrection as a goal to be reached.
- G1519 eis (to or into): This preposition points toward a purpose or result. It is used for purposes like calling sinners to repentance Matthew 9:13 and being baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost Matthew 28:19. In Philippians 3:11, it directs the action of attaining "unto" the resurrection.
- G3498 nekrós (dead): This word identifies the state from which the rising occurs. It refers to those who are dead and are the subjects of being raised, as when Christ was raised from the dead Romans 6:4 or when believers are called to arise from the dead Ephesians 5:14.
The theological weight of G1815 is centered on the believer's ultimate hope and participation in Christ's victory over death.
- A Pursued Hope: The use of G1815 in Philippians 3:11, combined with the phrase "if by any means I might attain," frames the resurrection not as a passive event, but as a specific and cherished goal of the faithful.
- Rising from Death: The definition "a rising from death" emphasizes a definitive departure from the state of the dead G3498. This aligns with the broader scriptural theme of Christ being the first to be raised from the dead Revelation 1:5.
- The Goal of Faith: The act of striving to attain G2658 this resurrection is presented as the culmination of the Christian walk, the purpose for which believers are called and toward which they are transformed by the renewing of their mind Romans 12:2.
In summary, while G1815 appears only once, its significance is profound. It represents more than just a general resurrection; it conveys the concept of a specific, deeply desired "rising from death" that is the ultimate hope and objective for the believer. Its singular use in Philippians 3:11, supported by the surrounding language of striving and attaining, marks it as the pinnacle of the Christian's spiritual journey.
TRV