from ἀνίστημι; a standing up again, i.e. (literally) a resurrection from death (individual, genitive case or by implication, (its author)), or (figuratively) a (moral) recovery (of spiritual truth):--raised to life again, resurrection, rise from the dead, that should rise, rising again.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anástasis**, represented by `{{G386}}`, means **a standing up again**. It appears **42 times** across **40 unique verses** and most commonly refers to a resurrection from death. The term is central to the Christian faith, describing both the literal resurrection of an individual and the figurative, moral recovery of spiritual truth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G386}}` is a cornerstone of New Testament teaching. Jesus{G2424} himself claims to be the **resurrection**{G386} and the life{G2222} [[John 11:25]]. The apostles{G652} consistently gave witness with great power{G1411} to the **resurrection**{G386} of the Lord Jesus{G2424} [[Acts 4:33]]. This doctrine was a point of major contention, particularly with the Sadducees{G4523}, who denied that there is any **resurrection**{G386} [[Luke 20:27]]. The term also describes the future event for all humanity, which will result in a **resurrection**{G386} of life{G2222} for those who have done{G4160} good, and a **resurrection**{G386} of damnation{G2920} for those who have done{G4238} evil [[John 5:29]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of resurrection:
* `{{G450}}` **anístēmi** (to stand up, rise again): This is the root verb from which `{{G386}}` is derived. It is used to command a person to **arise**{G450} from the dead{G3498} [[Ephesians 5:14]].
* `{{G3498}}` **nekrós** (dead): This word is frequently paired with `{{G386}}` to specify the **resurrection**{G386} of the **dead**{G3498} [[1 Corinthians 15:42]]. It signifies the state from which one is raised.
* `{{G2222}}` **zōḗ** (life): This is the outcome of the resurrection for the righteous. Jesus{G2424} connects himself as the **resurrection**{G386} and the **life**{G2222} [[John 11:25]], and there is a promised **resurrection**{G386} of **life**{G2222} [[John 5:29]].
* `{{G2288}}` **thánatos** (death): Representing the ultimate enemy to be overcome, **death**{G2288} is the condition that precedes resurrection. Believers are planted together in the likeness of Christ's **death**{G2288} to also be in the likeness of his resurrection [[Romans 6:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G386}}` is immense and underpins key Christian doctrines.
* **The Power of Christ:** The **resurrection**{G386} of Jesus{G2424} is the demonstration of his **power**{G1411} and his declaration as the Son{G5207} of God{G2316} ([[Romans 1:4]], [[Philippians 3:10]]). Jesus is not merely an agent of resurrection; He *is* the **resurrection**{G386} [[John 11:25]].
* **A Living Hope:** The **resurrection**{G386} of Jesus Christ from the dead{G3498} is what begets believers into a lively{G2198} **hope**{G1680} [[1 Peter 1:3]]. This **hope**{G1680} includes the future **resurrection**{G386} of both the just{G1342} and the unjust{G94} [[Acts 24:15]].
* **Foundational Truth:** The doctrine of the **resurrection**{G386} of the dead{G3498} is a foundational element of the faith, alongside eternal{G166} judgment{G2917} [[Hebrews 6:2]]. To deny it is to err{G795} from the truth and **overthrow**{G396} the faith{G4102} of some [[2 Timothy 2:18]].
* **Two Destinies:** Scripture speaks of a "first **resurrection**{G386}," and those who have part in it are called blessed{G3107} and holy{G40} [[Revelation 20:6]]. This is contrasted with the "second death{G2288}," pointing toward the two distinct outcomes of the **resurrection**{G386}: one to life and one to damnation [[John 5:29]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G386}}` is far more than a single future event; it is a present reality in the person of Christ and the foundation for Christian hope. It defines the core of the apostolic message, highlighting the power of God over death. The concept of **anástasis** ultimately points to the final destinies of all people, establishing a division between the resurrection to life and the resurrection to damnation.
TRV