What does it mean that Jesus rose “again”?

Answer

In some Bible verses, such as 2 Corinthians 5:15 and 1 Thessalonians 4:14 (depending on the translation), and in many of the well-known and ancient creeds like the Apostles’ Creed and the Nicene Creed, the term “rose again” is used concerning Jesus’ resurrection. Consequently, “rose again” has become a commonly used phrase when discussing the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This can be misleading because “again” often implies “an additional time” or “once more.” Saying Jesus “rising again” might suggest that Jesus rose from the dead more than once.

Although “again” can signify “an additional time” or indicate a further instance of an event, it can also mean “anew” or “afresh.” Additionally, “again” can be interpreted as “in return” or “to a previous place or condition.” For instance, in The Merchant of Venice, Portia mentions someone who “swore he would pay him again when he was able” (I:ii). In this context of a business deal, Portia uses “again” to mean “in return.” Likewise, when used in relation to Jesus’ resurrection, “rose again” does not imply “arose a second time.” Instead, it signifies that Jesus rose anew. He returned to life. He came back to His previous state. Jesus was alive before; then He was dead for a while; now He is back.

Similarly, the English term “resurrect” originates from the Latin word “resurrexit.” Note the prefix “re-” in both the English and Latin terms. Typically, when the prefix “re-” is added to a word, it implies that the action is happening again, i.e., repeated. However, like the word “again,” the prefix “re-” can also mean “anew” or “back.” When we say that Jesus was “resurrected,” we are not suggesting that Jesus was “surrected” a second time. We are stating that Jesus returned to life. He has life anew. What is being reiterated is not the act of returning to life but the state of being alive.

Stating, “Jesus rose again,” is merely a manner of alluding to the resurrection of Jesus. Any confusion regarding the word “ag”Pain should be dispelled by the understanding that words frequently have various meanings. The crucial point to note is that saying “Jesus rose again” does not imply Jesus rose from the dead multiple times. Instead, it signifies Jesus came back to life. Jesus was once deceased but is now alive anew.