### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun ἀνάληψις (análēpsis, `{{G354}}`) is derived from the verb ἀναλαμβάνω (analambanō, `{{G337}}`), which means "to take up," "to lift up," or "to receive up." Consequently, ἀνάληψις denotes the act of "taking up" or, more specifically in its theological context, "ascension." Its semantic range primarily centers on a movement upwards, implying a reception into a higher place or state. This word carries the nuance of a deliberate, divinely appointed elevation or removal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἀνάληψις (análēpsis, `{{G354}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, yet its singular occurrence is profoundly significant. It is found in [[Luke 9:51]]: "When the days were approaching for His *ascension* (ἀνάληψις), He was determined to go to Jerusalem."
In this pivotal verse, ἀνάληψις refers directly to the future ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven following His resurrection. The context highlights several crucial aspects:
1. **Divine Appointment:** The phrase "when the days were approaching" underscores the preordained nature of Jesus' ascension. It was not an accidental event but the divinely appointed culmination of His earthly mission.
2. **Pivotal Turning Point:** This verse marks a significant narrative shift in Luke's Gospel. It signals the beginning of Jesus' resolute journey towards Jerusalem, where He would fulfill His redemptive work through His passion, death, resurrection, and ultimately, His return to the Father. The "ascension" is presented as the ultimate goal and destination of this journey.
3. **Intentionality of Christ:** Jesus' determination to go to Jerusalem, despite the suffering that awaited Him, is intrinsically linked to this ultimate "taking up." He steadfastly set His face, knowing the full trajectory of His mission.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most directly related word is the verb from which ἀνάληψις is derived: ἀναλαμβάνω (analambanō, `{{G337}}`). This verb is used more frequently in the New Testament to describe Jesus' ascension. For example:
* [[Acts 1:2]]: "...until the day when He was *taken up* (ἀνελήμφθη)..."
* [[Acts 1:11]]: "...this Jesus, who was *taken up* (ἀναληφθεὶς) from you into heaven..."
* [[Acts 1:22]]: "...until the day that He was *taken up* (ἀνελήμφθη) from us..."
Beyond the direct lexical relation, ἀνάληψις is conceptually intertwined with several key theological themes:
* **Exaltation and Glorification:** The ascension is the ultimate act of Christ's exaltation, His transition from the humiliation of the cross to the glory of His heavenly enthronement.
* **Heavenly Session:** It signifies His enthronement at the right hand of God, where He exercises all authority and intercedes for His people.
* **Parousia (Second Coming):** The ascension foreshadows Christ's future return, as stated in [[Acts 1:11]], connecting His departure with His promised advent.
* **Holy Spirit's Outpouring:** Christ's ascension was a necessary prerequisite for the sending of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, as Jesus Himself taught in [[John 16:7]] and as Peter declared in [[Acts 2:33]].
### Theological Significance
The single use of ἀνάληψις in [[Luke 9:51]] carries profound theological weight:
1. **Culmination of Redemptive Work:** The ascension marks the successful completion of Christ's earthly redemptive work. It signifies that His atoning sacrifice and victorious resurrection have been fully accepted by the Father, and He has returned to His rightful place of honor and authority.
2. **Christ's Present Reign and Intercession:** The ἀνάληψις is not merely a departure but an enthronement. Christ ascends to sit at the right hand of God, signifying His universal dominion and His ongoing mediatorial work as High Priest, interceding for believers ([[Hebrews 4:14-16]], [[Romans 8:34]]).
3. **Foundation for the Church's Mission:** The ascension is inextricably linked to the empowerment of the church. Having ascended, Christ pours out the Holy Spirit, enabling His disciples to continue His mission on earth ([[Acts 1:8]], [[Acts 2:33]]).
4. **Hope and Assurance for Believers:** Christ's ascension provides a tangible hope for believers. His going to prepare a place for us ([[John 14:2-3]]) and His promise to return offer assurance of future bodily resurrection and glorification with Him ([[Philippians 3:20-21]], [[1 Thessalonians 4:17]]). It underscores that our ultimate destiny is with Him in glory.
### Summary
The Greek noun ἀνάληψις (análēpsis, `{{G354}}`), meaning "ascension" or "taking up," appears uniquely in the New Testament in [[Luke 9:51]]. This singular occurrence is profoundly significant, marking the pivotal moment when Jesus "set His face to go to Jerusalem" in anticipation of His glorious return to the Father. Derived from the verb ἀναλαμβάνω (analambanō, `{{G337}}`), which describes the act of being taken up, ἀνάληψις encapsulates the culmination of Christ's earthly ministry and His transition from humiliation to exaltation. Theologically, it signifies not merely a physical departure but Christ's enthronement at the right hand of God, establishing His ultimate authority and intercessory role. It is also the necessary prelude to the Holy Spirit's outpouring and serves as a foundational hope for the future glorification of believers. The ἀνάληψις thus stands as a testament to divine sovereignty, Christ's accomplished work, and His ongoing reign.
TRV