ἐξανάστασις

a resurrection

Definition

The Greek word ἐξανάστασις (exanastasis) specifically denotes a 'resurrection out from among' others, emphasizing a selective or particular rising. In its sole New Testament occurrence, Philippians 3:11, it refers to the believer's future resurrection from the dead, distinct from a general resurrection. It carries the nuance of being raised out of the realm of the dead, implying a separation or special outcome. This term highlights the specific hope of the righteous being resurrected to eternal life, as opposed to a universal rising of all people.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Philippians 3:11. Here, the Apostle Paul expresses his ardent desire to attain 'the resurrection from the dead' (τὴν ἐξανάστασιν τὴν ἐκ νεκρῶν). The context is Paul's discussion of knowing Christ and the power of His resurrection, aiming for the ultimate prize of the heavenly call. The usage is intensely personal and eschatological, focused on the future hope of believers.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐξ (ex), meaning 'out of' or 'from,' combined with the noun ἀνάστασις (anastasis, G386), meaning 'a standing up' or 'resurrection.' Literally, it means 'a resurrection out from.' It builds upon the core concept of resurrection (anastasis) but adds the prefix to specify a resurrection that involves being brought out from a group or state.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it underscores the selective nature of the believer's resurrection. It points to the doctrine of a resurrection to life, distinct from a resurrection to judgment (cf. John 5:29, Acts 24:15). Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of Philippians 3 by highlighting that Paul's hope was not merely for revival but for a victorious emergence from death into eternal life with Christ, which is the ultimate goal of the Christian faith.

In the first-century Greco-Roman and Jewish world, beliefs about the afterlife varied. Some Greek philosophical schools doubted bodily resurrection, while Judaism held diverse views (e.g., Pharisees believed in resurrection, Sadducees did not). Paul's use of this intensified term would resonate with Jewish-Christian hopes for a righteous resurrection, affirming a physical, bodily rising for the faithful, set apart from the final fate of the unrighteous.

ἀνάστασις (anastasis, G386) — The general term for 'resurrection.' ἐξανάστασις adds the specific nuance of 'resurrection out from.' ἔγερσις (egersis, G1454) — A less common synonym for 'a raising' or 'rising,' often used in secular Greek.

Word Details

Scripture References