When we hear the word 'exaltation,' our minds might immediately jump to a feeling of intense happiness, a moment of pure, unadulterated joy. And indeed, that's a big part of it. Dictionaries often describe it as a state of very great joy or happiness, a feeling of intense well-being or exhilaration. Think of those moments in life that just take your breath away with sheer delight – that's exaltation in its common, everyday sense.
But when we delve into the Bible, the meaning of 'exaltation' takes on a richer, more profound dimension. It's not just about personal feelings, though those are certainly present. In a biblical context, exaltation often refers to the act of raising something or someone to a high position or rank. It's about elevation, about being lifted up, often by a divine hand.
Consider the concept of God's exaltation. This isn't about God needing to be lifted up, for He is already supreme. Rather, it's about humanity recognizing and acknowledging His supreme status, His glory, and His power. When the Psalms speak of exalting the Lord, they are calling for praise, worship, and reverence. It's an active declaration of His worthiness, a lifting up of His name above all others. This can manifest as a deep, internal joy, yes, but it's rooted in a theological understanding of who God is.
We also see exaltation in relation to Jesus Christ. His resurrection and ascension are prime examples of His exaltation. He was raised to the right hand of God, given a name above every name. This isn't just a metaphorical elevation; it signifies His ultimate authority and reign. His followers, in turn, can experience a spiritual exaltation as they are united with Him, sharing in His victory and His heavenly inheritance.
Interestingly, the word 'exaltation' can also sometimes carry a nuance of being raised to a position of honor or importance, even to the point of deification or apotheosis in some contexts. While this might sound a bit dramatic, it highlights the powerful act of elevating something or someone to an esteemed status. In the biblical narrative, this ultimate elevation is reserved for God alone, and for Christ as the Son of God.
So, while the dictionary definition of 'exaltation' as intense happiness is certainly valid, the biblical understanding broadens this. It encompasses not only profound joy but also the active recognition of divine sovereignty, the elevation of God's name, and the ultimate triumph and reign of Christ. It’s a concept that speaks to both our inner spiritual experience and our outward declaration of faith.
