from ἀνά and ἵστημι; to stand up (literal or figurative, transitive or intransitive):--arise, lift up, raise up (again), rise (again), stand up(-right).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anístēmi**, represented by `{{G450}}`, means **to stand up**. It appears **123 times** in **111 unique verses**. Its definition encompasses both literal and figurative action, being used transitively or intransitively to mean arise, lift up, raise up, rise again, or stand up. This word signifies a fundamental transition from a state of rest, inactivity, or even death to one of action, life, and purpose.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{G450}}` is used in a variety of crucial contexts. It can describe a simple physical act, as when Matthew was called by Jesus and "he **arose**, and followed him" [[Matthew 9:9]]. It is frequently used as a command to initiate action, such as when the Lord tells Ananias to "**Arise**, and go into the street" [[Acts 9:11]]. The term also carries prophetic weight, as in the promise that God would **raise up** a prophet like Moses [[Acts 3:22]]. Most significantly, it is the primary word used to describe the resurrection, both of Christ, whom God **hath raised up** [[Acts 2:24]], and of believers, as "the dead in Christ shall **rise** first" [[1 Thessalonians 4:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to clarify and expand upon the meaning of **anístēmi**:
* `{{G1453}}` **egeírō** (to waken, rouse, raise): This word is often used synonymously with `{{G450}}`, especially in the context of resurrection. In [[Ephesians 5:14]], the two are used together in a powerful call to action: "**Awake** thou that sleepest, and **arise** from the dead."
* `{{G4198}}` **poreúomai** (to travel, go one's way): This term for movement often follows an act of rising. The prodigal son resolves, "I will **arise** and **go** to my father" [[Luke 15:18]], linking the decision to stand with the subsequent journey.
* `{{G2597}}` **katabaínō** (to descend): This word acts as an opposite to `{{G450}}`. It creates a powerful theological picture where the Lord will **descend** from heaven, which in turn causes the dead to **rise** [[1 Thessalonians 4:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G450}}` is immense, forming the bedrock of several core Christian doctrines.
* **The Resurrection of Christ:** The word is central to the gospel message. God provided assurance to all people by having **raised** Jesus from the dead [[Acts 17:31]]. Peter preaches that God **raised up** Jesus, and the apostles are witnesses of this fact [[Acts 2:32]].
* **The Future Hope of Believers:** The promise of eternal life is tied directly to this word. Jesus states repeatedly that He will **raise** up those who believe in Him at the last day ([[John 6:40]], [[John 6:44]], [[John 6:54]]).
* **Spiritual Awakening and Commission:** `{{G450}}` serves as a command to move from a state of spiritual death or complacency into new life and purpose. This is seen in the call to "**arise** from the dead" in a spiritual sense [[Ephesians 5:14]] and in the command to Saul to "**arise**, and be baptized" [[Acts 22:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G450}}` is a dynamic word that conveys much more than simply standing. It illustrates God's power to call individuals to action, to **raise up** prophets and leaders, and, most critically, to bring life from death. From a literal command to get up to the profound doctrine of resurrection, **anístēmi** captures the essence of divine intervention that moves people and history from a lower state to one of elevated life and purpose.
TRV