PHP front intro pv9j 0 # Introduction to Philippians<br><br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of the Philippians<br><br>1. Greeting, thanksgiving and prayer (1:1-11)<br>1. Paul’s report on his ministry (1:12-26)<br>1. Instructions<br> - To be steadfast (1:27-30)<br> - To be united (2:1-2)<br> - To be humble (2:3-11)<br> - To work out our salvation with God working in you (2:12-13)<br> - To be innocent and light (2:14-18)<br>1. Timothy and Epaphroditus (2:19-30)<br>1. Warning about false teachers (3:1-4:1)<br>1. Personal instruction (4:2-5)<br>1. Rejoice and do not be anxious (4:4-6)<br>1. Final remarks<br> - Values (4:8-9)<br> - Contentment (4:10-20)<br> - Final Greetings (4:21-23)<br><br>### Who wrote the Book Philippians?<br><br>Paul wrote Philippians. Paul was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.<br><br>Paul wrote this letter while in prison in Rome.<br><br>### What is the Book of Philippians about?<br><br>Paul wrote this letter to the believers in Philippi, a city in Macedonia. He wrote it to thank the Philippians for the gift they had sent him. He wanted to tell them about how he was doing in prison and to encourage them to rejoice even if they are suffering. He also wrote to them about a man named Epaphroditus. He was the one who brought the gift to Paul. While visiting Paul, Epaphroditus became ill. So, Paul decided to send him back to Philippi. Paul encouraged the believers in Philippi to welcome and to be kind to Epaphroditus when he returns.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “Philippians.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “Paul’s Letter to the Church in Philippi,” or “A Letter to the Christians in Philippi.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### What was the city of Philippi like?<br><br>Philip, the father of Alexander the Great, founded Philippi in the region of Macedonia. This meant that the citizens of Philippi were also considered citizens of Rome. The people of Philippi were proud of being citizens of Rome. But Paul told the believers that they are citizens of heaven (3:20).<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### Singular and plural “you”<br><br>In this book, the word “I” refers to Paul. The word “you” is almost always plural and refers to the believers in Philippi. The exception to this is 4:3. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])<br><br>### Who were the “enemies of the cross of Christ” (3:18) in this letter?<br><br>The “enemies of the cross of Christ” were probably people who called themselves believers, but they did not obey God’s commands. They thought that freedom in Christ meant that believers could do whatever they desired and God would not punish them (3:19).<br><br>### Why were the words “joy” and “rejoice” frequently used in this letter?<br><br>Paul was in prison when he wrote this letter (1:7). Even though he suffered, Paul said many times that he was joyful because God had been kind to him through Jesus Christ. He wanted to encourage his readers to have the same trust in Jesus Christ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])<br><br>### What does Paul mean by the expression “in Christ,” “in the Lord,” etc.?<br><br>This kind of expression occurs in 1:1, 8, 13, 14, 26, 27; 2:1, 5, 19, 24, 29; 3:1, 3, 9, 14; 4:1, 2, 4, 7, 10, 13, 19, 21. Paul meant to express the idea of a very close union with Christ and the believers. See the introduction to the Book of Romans for more details about this kind of expression.<br><br>### What are the major issues in the text of the Book of Philippians?<br><br>Some versi
PHP 1 intro kd3g 0 # Philippians 1 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul includes a prayer in the beginning of this letter. At that time, religious leaders sometimes began informal letters with a prayer.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### The day of Christ<br><br>This probably refers to the day when Christ returns. Paul often connected the return of Christ with motivating godly living. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Paradox<br><br>A paradox is a true statement that appears to describe something impossible. This statement in verse 21 is a paradox: “to die is gain.” In verse 23 Paul explains why this is true. ([Philippians 1:21](../../php/01/21.md))
PHP 1 2 uuep translate-blessing χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη 1 Grace to you and peace This is a common greeting and blessing that Paul often uses in the beginning of his letters. Use a form in your language that makes it clear that this is a greeting and blessing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing]])
PHP 1 2 pyji figs-yousingular ὑμῖν 1 In this letter, with one exception, the words **you** and **your** are plural and refer to the Philippian Christians. If your language uses different forms to show when “you” and “your” refer to one person and when they refer to more than one person, use the plural form that would be appropriate in your language in this occurrence and all other occurrences of “you” and “your” in this letter, except for in [4:3](../04/3.md). A note will discuss the one exception in [4:3](../04/3.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
PHP 1 3 ntp5 ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ μνείᾳ ὑμῶν 1 in all my remembrance of you Here, **in all my remembrance of you** could refer to (1) Paul thanking God each time that he thought about the Philippian Christians. Alternate translation: “each time I think about you” (2) Paul thanking God for the good things that he remembered about the Christians in Philppi. Alternate translation: “because of all that I remember about you”
PHP 1 3 w8dz figs-yousingular ὑμῶν 1 See how you translated the word **you** in [1:2](../01/2.md). In this letter, every use of the words **you** and **your** are plural and refer to the Philippian Christians except for in one use in [4:3](../04/3.md) which has a note will discuss to discuss it. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
PHP 1 5 bca2 ἐπὶ τῇ κοινωνίᾳ ὑμῶν εἰς τὸ εὐαγγέλιον, ἀπὸ τῆς πρώτης ἡμέρας ἄχρι τοῦ νῦν 1 Here, **because** could refer to: (1) the reason for Paul’s joy. See UST. (2) the reason that Paul gives thanks to God. Alternate translation: “I give thanks to God because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now”
PHP 1 5 fdqe figs-yousingular ὑμῶν 1 Here, the word **your** is plural and refers to the Philippian Christians. In this letter, with one exception, the words **you** and **your** are always plural and always refer to the Philippian Christians. If your language uses different forms to show when “you” and “your” refer to one person and when they refer to more than one person, use the plural form that would be appropriate in your language in this occurrence and all other occurrences of “you” and “your” in this letter, except for in [4:3](../04/3.md). A note will discuss the one exception in [4:3](../04/3.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
PHP 1 5 yi9l figs-explicit τῇ κοινωνίᾳ ὑμῶν εἰς τὸ εὐαγγέλιον 1 because of your fellowship in the gospel Here, **your fellowship in the gospel** refers to the Philippian Christians’ partnering with Paul in the various things involved in spreading the gospel. If it would be clearer in your language you can state this more explicitly. Alternate translation: “your participation with me in advancing the gospel” or “your partnership with me in working to spread the good news about Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 1 5 vi1r figs-explicit ἀπὸ τῆς πρώτης ἡμέρας ἄχρι τοῦ νῦν 1 The phrase **from the first day** could refer to: (1) the time at which the Philippian Christians first believed the gospel which Paul preached to them. See UST. (2) the time at which Paul first preached the gospel in Philippi. Alternate translation: “from the time I first preached the gospel to you until now” (3) both the time at which the Philippian Christians first believed the gospel and to the time when Paul first preached the gospel in Philippi.<br>Alternate translation: “from the time you first heard and believed the gospel I preached until now” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 1 6 s1l8 figs-explicit πεποιθὼς αὐτὸ τοῦτο 1 having been persuaded The phrase **having been persuaded** indicates the reason that Paul thanks God. If it would be clearer in your language you can state that explicitly. Alternate translation: “The reason I thank God is because I am confident of this very thing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 1 6 jf4x figs-explicit ὁ ἐναρξάμενος 1 the one having begun Here, **the one** refers to God. If it would be clearer in your language you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “God having begun” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 1 6 u80a figs-explicit ὅτι ὁ ἐναρξάμενος ἐν ὑμῖν ἔργον ἀγαθὸν 1 The phrase **good work in you** refers to both the initial conversion of the Philippian Christians and to God’s ongoing work in their lives, through the work of the Holy Spirit, after they first believed in Jesus. If it would be clearer in your language you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “that God, having begun his good work in you through your conversion and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 1 6 p2a5 figs-explicit ἐπιτελέσει 1 Here, **will perfect it** means that God will bring to completion the work which he began in the lives of the Philippian Christians at their conversion and was currently doing. If it would be clearer in your language you can say this explicitly. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 1 6 p5pu figs-explicit ἡμέρας Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ 1 The phrase **the day of Jesus Christ** refers to the time in the future when Jesus Christ will return to judge the world and save those who believe in him. If it would be clearer in your language you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “the time when Jesus Christ returns” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 1 7 sowf figs-idiom τὸ ἔχειν με ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ ὑμᾶς 1 I have you in my heart The phrase, **I have you in my heart** is an idiom which expresses strong affection. If you have an equivalent expression which adequately communicates the meaning you may use it here or you state this using plain language. Alternate translation: “I love you very much” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
PHP 1 7 r3jp figs-metonymy ἔχειν με ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ ὑμᾶς 1 Paul is figuratively describing his thoughts and feelings of love by associating them with his **heart**. Here, the word **heart** is used figuratively to represent the center of Paul’s inner thoughts and feelings. Paul uses the phrase **I have you in my heart** to mean that he loves and cares for the Philippian Christians. If this would be confusing in your language you may use an equivalent expression from your language to express this or state this using plain language. Alternate translation: “I love you deeply” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])<br>
PHP 1 7 df00 χάριτος 1 Here, Paul uses the word **grace** to refer both to His imprisonment and to his ministry of defending and confirming the gospel. If this would be unclear, consider saying this in a way that would make the meaning clear in your language. See UST.
PHP 1 7 o7ef figs-metonymy δεσμοῖς μου 1 Paul refers to his imprisonment in Rome by using the phrase **my chains**. Paul was chained to a guard and the Philippian Christians would have understood that Paul was referring to his imprisonment when he used the phrase **my chains** because of the close association between **chains** and being in prison. If this association is not clear in your language you could use an equivalent expression or use plain language. Alternate translation: “my imprisonment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
PHP 1 7 dv6x ἀπολογίᾳ 1 At the time Paul wrote this letter the word translated **defense** was often used with a legal meaning to refer to the defense given in a court of law against a charge that was made. Here, Paul uses the word **defense** to speak of his defending the truth of the gospel. If your language has a word or phrase which expresses the legal sense of this word, considering using it if it would be natural to use in the context of defending the gospel.
PHP 1 7 cp9o βεβαιώσει 1 At the time Paul wrote this letter the word **confirmation** could be used with a legal meaning to refer to legally defending and confirming the truth of something. If your language has a word or phrase which expresses the legal sense of this word, considering using it if it would be natural to use in the context of defending and confirming the truth of the gospel.
PHP 1 8 xun1 figs-idiom ἐν σπλάγχνοις Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ 1 in the bowels of Christ Jesus The word **bowels** is a term which refers to body organs and particularly to the liver, lungs, and heart. Here, Paul uses **bowels** figuratively. The figurative use of **bowels** could refer to: (1) the center and source of emotion. Alternate translation: “with the heart of Christ Jesus” (2) emotion itself. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
PHP 1 9 w910 figs-abstractnouns ἐν ἐπιγνώσει καὶ πάσῃ αἰσθήσει 1 The word **knowledge** is an abstract noun. If it would be clearer in your language you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **knowledge** with a verb such as “see”. Alternate translation: “and that God will enable you to see the truth about Him and teach you to love wisely” See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 1 9 tbtt figs-abstractnouns ἐν ἐπιγνώσει καὶ πάσῃ αἰσθήσει 1 The word **understanding** is an abstract noun. If it would be clearer in your language you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **understanding** by using a verb phrase such as “and teach you to love wisely.” Alternate translation: “and that God will enable you to see the truth about Him and teach you to love wisely” See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])<br>
PHP 1 10 e17g εἰς τὸ δοκιμάζειν ὑμᾶς τὰ διαφέροντα 1 Alternate translation: “so that you may approve and choose what pleases God”
PHP 1 10 ybw6 grammar-connect-logic-result εἰς 1 Here, the phrase **so that** shows that what follows this phrase is the the reason for what Paul prays in verse nine and is the desired result of his prayer. Consider using a word or phrase that will clearly show that what follows the phrase **so that** is the reason for what Paul prays in verse nine. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
PHP 1 10 s4ec τὰ διαφέροντα 1 what excels Alternate translation: “what is most pleasing to God”
PHP 1 10 siv8 figs-doublet εἰλικρινεῖς καὶ ἀπρόσκοποι 1 pure and blameless The words **pure** and **blameless** have very similar meanings. Paul uses these two words together to emphasize the idea of moral purity. If it would be clearer in your language you could combine these two words and translate them as one idea. Alternate translation: “completely blameless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
PHP 1 11 lu5n figs-metaphor πεπληρωμένοι καρπὸν δικαιοσύνης τὸν διὰ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 Here, the phrase **fruit of** is a metaphor which figuratively refers to what characterizes a person, namely what a person produces. The phrase **fruit of righteousness** is a comparison between a good tree which produces good fruit and a person who is filled with righteousness and produces good actions as a result. If this would be unclear in your language you could state this in plain language. Alternate translation: “habitually doing the good works which Jesus the Messiah produces” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 1 11 t3w4 figs-activepassive πεπληρωμένοι 1 The phrase **being filled with** is in the passive tense. If using a passive verb form would be confusing in your language you may translate this phrase using an active verb form. Alternate translation: “God has enabled you to produce” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
PHP 1 12 tu2t figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Although the term **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a spiritual sense to include both men and women who believe in Jesus. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
PHP 1 12 zy4g figs-explicit τὰ κατ’ ἐμὲ, μᾶλλον εἰς προκοπὴν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου ἐλήλυθεν 1 the things concerning me The phrase **the things concerning me** refers to Paul’s imprisonment. If this would be unclear in your language you may state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the things I have suffered because I was put into prison for preaching about Jesus have happened for the greater progress of the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 1 12 q288 μᾶλλον εἰς προκοπὴν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου ἐλήλυθεν 1 have really happened for the advancement of the gospel Alternate translation: “have actually caused more people to hear the gospel”
PHP 1 13 wi6n grammar-connect-logic-result ὥστε 1 my chains in Christ became apparent among the whole palace guard and all the others Here, the phrase **As a result** introduces the result of Paul’s circumstances which he began discussing in verse 12. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
PHP 1 13 f8az figs-explicit τοὺς δεσμούς μου…ἐν Χριστῷ 1 my chains in Christ Here, the preposition **in** used in the phrase **chains in Christ** could refer to: (1) that Paul’s chains are because of his work for the cause of Christ. Alternate translation: “my chains for the sake of Christ” or “my chains because I teach people about Christ” or “my chains for the cause of Christ” (2) the fact that Paul is in chains because of his close connection with Christ. Alternate translation: “my chains because of my connection with Christ” or “my chains because I am in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 1 13 dm1m translate-unknown πραιτωρίῳ 1 the whole palace guard The phrase **palace guard** refers to a special group of soldiers that helped protect the Roman emperor. Consider translating this phrase in a way that is easily understood in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
PHP 1 14 a1kh ἀδελφῶν 1 See how you translated **brothers** in verse 12. Although the term **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a spiritual sense to include both men and women who believe in Jesus. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
PHP 1 14 gy47 figs-explicit πλείονας τῶν ἀδελφῶν ἐν Κυρίῳ πεποιθότας τοῖς δεσμοῖς μου, περισσοτέρως τολμᾶν ἀφόβως τὸν λόγον λαλεῖν 1 fearlessly to speak the word The phrase **most of the brothers have been encouraged in the Lord by my chains, to dare more fearlessly to speak the word** means that most of the Christians who became aware of Paul’s imprisonment were emboldened by it to share the gospel with more courage. If it would be clearer in your language consider stating this explicitly. Alternate translation: “as a result of my imprisonment most of our fellow believers have been emboldened to share the gospel more boldly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 1 14 sz29 figs-explicit ἐν Κυρίῳ πεποιθότας τοῖς δεσμοῖς μου 1 The phrase **encouraged in the Lord** means that the Philippian Christians had become more confident in Christ by Paul’s imprisonment. If this would be unclear in your language consider stating this explicitly. Alternate translation: “as a result of my imprisonment, have increased confidence in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 1 14 v2wo τὸν λόγον 1 Here, **the word** refers to the gospel. If it would be clearer in your language, consider stating this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the gospel” or “the good news”
PHP 1 15 vw1s τινὲς μὲν καὶ…τὸν Χριστὸν κηρύσσουσιν 1 Some indeed even proclaim Christ Alternate translation: “Some people are preaching the good news about Jesus”
PHP 1 15 z9y9 διὰ φθόνον καὶ ἔριν 1 If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract nouns **envy** and **strife** by using them in verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “because they are envious and seek their own evil purposes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 1 15 yh1c εὐδοκίαν 1 If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **goodwill** by using it in a verbal phrase. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 1 16 ttr2 figs-activepassive εἰς ἀπολογίαν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου κεῖμαι 1 I am appointed for the defense of the gospel You can state the phrase **I am appointed for the defense of the gospel** in active form if it would be clearer in your language. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
PHP 1 16 w0b8 figs-explicit ἐξ ἀγάπης 1 Here, the object of the word **love** is not specified. You can leave the object of **love** unspecified or if it is needed in your language you may specify the object of **love**. Here, the word **love** could refer to: (1) love for Paul. See UST. (2) love for Christ. Alternate translation: “The ones who proclaim the good news because they love Christ” (3) love for multiple objects, such as Paul and Christ and those who have not yet heard or believed in the gospel. Alternate translation: “The ones who proclaim the good news because of their love for me, and Jesus, and those who do not believe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 1 16 ia9l figs-explicit εἰς ἀπολογίαν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου κεῖμαι 1 The phrase **I am appointed** could refer to: (1) God appointing Paul’s current situation of being in prison. Alternate translation: “I am appointed to be here for the defense of the gospel” (2) God appointing Paul to the ministry of defending the gospel. Alternate translation: “God has appointed me to the ministry of publicly defending the truth of the good news” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br>
PHP 1 17 z8ty figs-metonymy δεσμοῖς 1 in my chains See how you translated the word **chains** in [1:7](../01/7.md), [1:13](../01/13.md), and [1:14](../01/14.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
PHP 1 17 tc1u figs-explicit οἱ δὲ ἐξ ἐριθείας τὸν Χριστὸν καταγγέλλουσιν, οὐχ ἁγνῶς οἰόμενοι θλῖψιν ἐγείρειν τοῖς δεσμοῖς μου 1 Alternate translation: “But the people preaching the gospel from selfish ambition have wrong motives. They hope to cause me trouble in my imprisonment by their preaching” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 1 18 dc7l figs-rquestion τί γάρ 1 The phrase **What then** is a rhetorical question. If using a rhetorical question would be confusing in your language consider expressing the meaning of this rhetorical question by changing it into a statement. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
PHP 1 18 z5ia figs-ellipsis τί γάρ 1 What then? The phrase **What then** is a rhetorical question in which Paul leaves out some words that might be necessary to fully understand this question in some languages. If the phrase **What then** would be unclear in your language, you may add the words which are implied but not stated. This phrase could mean: (1) This phrase could be a rhetorical question which expects a negative answer. Alternate translation: “What does it matter what their motives are?” or “So what difference does it make?” (2) This phrase could be focusing on the result. Alternate translation: “What then is the result of this?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
PHP 1 18 sw24 figs-activepassive καταγγέλλεται 1 The phrase **is proclaimed** is in the passive tense. If using a passive verb form would be unclear in your language you may translate this phrase using an active verb form such as “are proclaiming”. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
PHP 1 18 cf58 χαρήσομαι 1 I will rejoice Alternate translation: “I will celebrate” or “I will be glad”
PHP 1 19 saze figs-explicit τοῦτό 1 Here, the word **this** refers to Paul’s current situation of being in prison and the things that accompanied it. If this would not be clear in your language you can say this explicitly. Alternate translation: “this situation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br><br>
PHP 1 19 h9hf figs-abstractnouns οἶδα γὰρ ὅτι τοῦτό μοι ἀποβήσεται εἰς σωτηρίαν 1 to me in deliverance The word **deliverance** is an abstract noun. If it would be clearer in your language you can express the meaning behind this word by using a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “for I know that this will result in God delivering me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 1 19 c48j τοῦ Πνεύματος Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 of the Spirit of Jesus Christ The phrase **the Spirit of Jesus Christ** is referring to the Holy Spirit.
PHP 1 20 fh48 figs-hendiadys ἀποκαραδοκίαν καὶ ἐλπίδα 1 according to my eager expectation and hope This phrase expresses a single idea. Both **eager expectation** and **hope** have similar meanings. Paul uses these two words together to emphasize the strength of his expectation. If you have a single word or phrase in your language which expresses the meaning of these two words, consider expressing their meaning together as one word or phrase if it would be clearer in your language. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
PHP 1 20 tk7l figs-abstractnouns κατὰ τὴν ἀποκαραδοκίαν καὶ ἐλπίδα μου 1 but in everything have boldness Both **expectation** and **hope** are abstract nouns. If it would be clearer in your language you may express them together in a verb phrase. Alternate translation: “but I fully believe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 1 20 jz1z figs-metonymy ἐν τῷ σώματί μου 1 Christ will be exalted in my body Here, the phrase **in my body** is used figuratively to mean the activities that Paul does with his body. Paul speaks of his **body** because it was with his earthly body that he would serve God on earth until he died, as he explains in more detail in [1:22-24](../01/22-24.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
PHP 1 20 y78k εἴτε διὰ ζωῆς εἴτε διὰ θανάτου 1 whether through life or through death Alternate translation: “whether I live or die”
PHP 1 21 n3jd figs-abstractnouns κέρδος 1 to die is gain The word **gain** is an abstract noun. If this would be unclear in your language you may express the meaning behind this word by using a verb phrase. See UST. See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 1 22 a21c figs-synecdoche ἐν σαρκί 1 Now if to live in the flesh Here, the phrase **in the flesh** means “in the body”. Paul is using the word **flesh** figuratively to refer to his entire body. Paul’s audience would have understood that he was referring to his body. If this would be confusing in your language consider using a different word or phrase to avoid misunderstanding. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])<br>
PHP 1 22 mwl6 figs-metaphor τοῦτό μοι καρπὸς ἔργου 1 this is fruitful labor for me Here, the word **fruitful** refers to Paul’s work producing good results. This is a metaphor in which Paul’s anticipated productive work is compared to a plant or tree which produces good fruit. Alternate translation: “this will mean effectively serving God” or “this will mean productively working for the advancement of the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 1 22 kxuu figs-abstractnouns ἔργου 1 The word **labor** is an abstract noun. If this would be unclear in your language you may express the meaning behind this word by using a verb phrase. See UST. See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 1 23 tq29 figs-metaphor συνέχομαι δὲ ἐκ τῶν δύο 1 But I am hard pressed between the two The phrase **hard pressed** is a metaphor. Paul speaks as if he is experiencing literal pressure from two opposite sides at the same time. Paul uses this figurative expression to show his difficulty in deciding which is best, if given the option between living or dying. If this would be confusing in your language, you can translate this phrase using a metaphor that would make sense in your language or you can choose to use plain language to express it. Alternate translation: “Both options have their advantages, so the decision is not an easy one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 1 23 j1sv figs-activepassive συνέχομαι 1 The phrase **I am hard pressed** is in passive form. If this would be confusing in your language you can express the meaning behind this phrase by using a verb phrase that is in the active voice. Alternate translation: “It is not easy for me to decide” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
PHP 1 23 q0n1 figs-explicit τῶν δύο 1 Here, the phrase **the two** refers to the two options regarding what decision is best. The choice of continuing to live on earth and serve Christ or its alternative, the choice of leaving earth to be with Christ. If the phrase **the two** would be confusing in your language, consider stating this explicitly. Alternate translation: “these two options” or “these two choices” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 1 23 u1zs figs-abstractnouns ἐπιθυμίαν 1 The word **desire** is an abstract noun. If this would be unclear in your language you can express the meaning of this word by using it in a verb phrase. See UST. See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 1 23 hhjr figs-euphemism ἀναλῦσαι 1 Here, Paul is referring to his death with the phrase **to depart**. This is a delicate way of referring to something unpleasant. Here, instead of focusing on the unpleasantness of death, Paul is instead using the word **depart** to focus on the positive result of his death, namely that his physical death will result in his being with Christ. If it would be clearer in your language, you could use plain language. Alternate translation: “to leave this body” or “to depart from this earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
PHP 1 24 etly figs-explicit τὸ δὲ ἐπιμένειν ἐν τῇ σαρκὶ 1 The phrase **remain in the flesh** means to remain alive in one’s body on earth. If this would be unclear in your language, consider stating this plainly. Alternate translation: “but to remain in the body” or “but to remain on this earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 1 24 k2j7 figs-ellipsis ἀναγκαιότερον 1 In the phrase **is more necessary** Paul leaves out the implied words “than departing” because he knows that his readers will understand them from the context. If this would be unclear in your language, consider supplying these omitted words in your translation. Alternative translation: “is more necessary than departing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
PHP 1 24 o4fk figs-synecdoche σαρκὶ 1 See how you translated the phrase **flesh** in [1:22](../01/22.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
PHP 1 24 hnl7 figs-yousingular ὑμᾶς 1 In this letter, with one exception, the words **you** and **your** are plural and refer to the Philippian Christians. If your language uses different forms to show when “you” and “your” refer to one person and when they refer to more than one person, use the plural form that would be most appropriate in your language in this occurrence and all other occurrences of “you” and “your” in this letter, except for in [4:3](../04/3.md). A note will discuss the one exception in [4:3](../04/3.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
PHP 1 25 bu8d figs-explicit καὶ τοῦτο πεποιθὼς 1 having been persuaded of this The word **this** refers back to [1:24](../01/24.md) where Paul said that he believed it was more necessary that he remain alive on earth so that he could continue helping the Philippian Christians mature in their faith. If this would be unclear in your language consider further explaining the word **this** in your translation. Alternate translation: “And being sure that it is better for you that I remain” or “And having been convinced that I should remain here, on earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 1 25 kmp4 figs-extrainfo μενῶ 1 I know that I will remain Here, the word **remain** refers to remaining alive on earth in one’s body in contrast to dying and leaving the earth to be with Christ. Paul explained this in [1:23-24](../01/23-24.md) so it is not necessary to explain it here. See how you translated the word **remain** in [1:24](../01/24.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]])
PHP 1 25 rruy figs-yousingular ὑμῖν 1 In this letter, with one exception, the words **you** and **your** are plural and refer to the Philippian Christians. If your language uses different forms to show when “you” and “your” refer to one person and when they refer to more than one person, use the plural form that would be appropriate in your language in this occurrence and all other occurrences of “you” and “your” in this letter, except for in [4:3](../04/3.md). A note will discuss the one exception in [4:3](../04/3.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
PHP 1 25 u0ib figs-abstractnouns εἰς τὴν ὑμῶν προκοπὴν 1 If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **progress** by using it as a verb in a verbal phrase or by expressing it in some other way that will make the meaning clear in your language. Alternate translation: “so that you progress in knowing Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 1 25 xvx9 figs-abstractnouns χαρὰν τῆς πίστεως 1 If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract nouns **joy** and **faith** by using them in a verb phrase or in some other way that would be clear in your language. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 1 26 viwq grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 Here, the phrase **so that** indicates purpose. In this verse, what follows **so that** is the reason Paul gives for what he said in [1:25](../01/25.md). In your translation, follow the conventions of your language for purpose clauses. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
PHP 1 26 d906 figs-abstractnouns καύχημα 1 If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **boasting** by expressing its meaning in a verb phrase or in some other way that would be clear in your language. Alternate translation: See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 1 26 an70 καύχημα…ἐν 1 Here, the word **boasting** means to “glory in” Jesus or to “take joy in” him. Alternate translation: “glorying in” or “rejoicing in”
PHP 1 26 j1d2 figs-go παρουσίας 1 Your language may have a different way of expressing the motion described by the word **coming** here. Here, the word **coming** refers to Paul going to where the Philippians live, and visiting them. If your language has a different way of expressing the motion described here by the word **coming**, use the word or phrase that will best help your readers understand which direction Paul is speaking of. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])
PHP 1 26 ay37 grammar-connect-logic-result τὸ καύχημα ὑμῶν περισσεύῃ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ ἐν ἐμοὶ, διὰ τῆς ἐμῆς παρουσίας πάλιν πρὸς ὑμᾶς 1 Here, the word **through** could refer to: (1) the reason the Philippians would greatly boast in Christ. Therefore, the word **through** means “because”. Alternate translation: See UST. (2) the means by which the Philippians would greatly boast in Christ. Therefore, the word **through** means “by”. Alternate translation: “by my coming to you again, your boasting in Christ Jesus will increase” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
PHP 1 27 bwmq figs-go ἐλθὼν 1 Your language may have a different way of expressing the motion described by the word **come**. Here, the word **come** refers to Paul going to where the Philippians live, and visiting them. See how you translated the form of this word in the previous verse, [1:26](../01/26.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])<br>
PHP 1 27 yddq figs-yousingular ἀξίως τοῦ εὐαγγελίου τοῦ Χριστοῦ πολιτεύεσθε 1 This is a command to the Philippian Christians. If your language has a plural command form, use it here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
PHP 1 27 u09z figs-metaphor στήκετε 1 Here, the phrase **stand firm** is used figuratively to mean not changing one’s beliefs but rather remaining steadfast in what one believes. If this would be unclear in your language consider using an equivalent expression from your language or use plain language. Alternate translation: “you be unmoved” or “you remain strong in your faith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 1 27 kmn8 figs-doublet ἐν ἑνὶ πνεύματι, μιᾷ ψυχῇ 1 Here, the phrases **in one spirit** and **with one soul** mean essentially the same thing and are used together to emphasize the importance of unity. Both of these phrases are used figuratively to mean “to have unity in ones primary purposes and beliefs”. Both phrases refer to being in agreement about what matters. If these expressions would be confusing in your language you may use plain language or use a similar expression from your language. Because these two phrases mean essentially the same thing, you may translate them together as one expression, if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “with unity” or “with singleness of purpose” or “in full agreement” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])<br>
PHP 1 27 ej2s συναθλοῦντες 1 striving together Alternate translation: “working hard together” or “cooperating together in the work”
PHP 1 27 ya3h τῇ πίστει τοῦ εὐαγγελίου 1 for the faith of the gospel The phrase **the faith of the gospel** is speaking of the Christian religion as a whole and refers to the Christian belief system which centers around the gospel. See UST.
PHP 1 28 i9yt figs-yousingular μὴ πτυρόμενοι ἐν μηδενὶ 1 This is a command to the Philippian Christians. If your language has a plural command form, use it here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
PHP 1 28 u9an figs-explicit τῶν ἀντικειμένων 1 The phrase **those opposing you** refers to the people who were opposing the Philippian Christians and causing them trouble. If this would be unclear in your language consider stating this plainly. Alternate translation: “the people opposing you” or “the people opposing you because you believe in Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 1 28 l495 figs-abstractnouns ἥτις ἐστὶν αὐτοῖς ἔνδειξις 1 If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **sign** by expressing it in a verbal phrase or by expressing it in some other way that would be clear in your language. Alternate translation: See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 1 28 t225 figs-abstractnouns ἀπωλείας 1 If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **destruction** by using a verb form or by expressing it in some other way that would be clear in your language. Alternate translation: “that God will destroy them” or see UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 1 28 ypn8 figs-abstractnouns σωτηρίας 1 If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **salvation** by using a verb form of this word or by expressing it in some other way that would be clear in your language. Alternate translation: See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 1 28 nb4b figs-extrainfo τοῦτο ἀπὸ Θεοῦ 1 The word **this** in the phrase **this is from God** could refer to: (1) what comes before it in this verse, both the courage God gives the Philippian Christians and the sign that their courage gives to those opposing them. Alternate translation: “your lack of fear and the evidence it gives is all from God” (2) the sign given to those who oppose the Philippian Christians. Alternate translation: “this sign is from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]])
PHP 1 29 qous figs-activepassive ὑμῖν ἐχαρίσθη τὸ 1 The phrase**it has been freely given to you** is in the passive voice. If using the passive voice would be confusing in your language you may express this using an active verbal clause. Alternate translation: “God has graciously granted” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
PHP 1 30 x4z3 τὸν αὐτὸν ἀγῶνα 1 having the same struggle which you saw in me, and now you hear in me If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **struggle** by using a verb phrase, as the UST does, or by expressing the idea behind this word in some other way that would be clear in your language. Alternate translation: “You are engaged in the same conflict” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 1 30 cewf figs-metaphor ἀγῶνα 1 Here, the word **struggle** refers to the conflict between good and evil and speaks of it as if it were a military battle or an athletic competition. If this would be unclear in your language you could state this in plain language. Alternate translation: “You are engaged in the same battle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 1 30 hnec figs-explicit εἴδετε ἐν ἐμοὶ, καὶ νῦν ἀκούετε ἐν ἐμοί 1 Here, the phrase **in me** refers to what Paul is experiencing. If this would be unclear in your language you can express this in a way that is understandable in your language. Alternate translation: “you saw me experience and now hear that I am experiencing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 1 30 xkob figs-ellipsis ἐν ἐμοί 1 Here, the phrase **in me** leaves out some words that might be necessary for a clear understanding in some languages. The missing words are left out because they are implied from earlier in this verse. If this phrase would be unclear as it is you may supply the missing words in your translation. Alternate translation: “I am engaged in” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
PHP 2 intro ixw8 0 # Philippians 2 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Some translations, like the ULT, set apart the lines of verses 6-11. These verses describe the example of Christ. They teach important truths about the person of Jesus.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Practical instructions<br><br>In this chapter Paul gives many practical instructions to the church in Philippi.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### “If there is any”<br><br>This appears to be a type of hypothetical statement. However, it is not a hypothetical statement, because it expresses something that is true. The translator may also translate this phrase as “Since there is.”
PHP 2 1 xye5 figs-abstractnouns εἴ τις…παράκλησις ἐν Χριστῷ 1 Connecting Statement: If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **encouragement** by using a verbal form of this word. Alternate translation: “if Christ encourages you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 2 1 v4ns grammar-connect-words-phrases οὖν 1 The word **Therefore** indicates that what follows is the natural consequence or conclusion to what preceded it. Use a word or phrase from your language that would show that what follows the word **Therefore** is intended to be the consequence of what preceded it. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
PHP 2 1 b1q7 εἴ τις…παράκλησις ἐν Χριστῷ 1 If there is any encouragement in Christ Alternate translation: “if Christ has encouraged you” or “if you are encouraged by being in Christ” or “if you are encouraged because of your union with Christ”
PHP 2 1 k1b2 εἴ τι παραμύθιον ἀγάπης 1 if any comfort of love Here, **love** probably refers to Christ’s love for the Philippians. Alternate translation: “if his love has given you any comfort” or “if his love for you has comforted you in any way”
PHP 2 1 del5 figs-ellipsis εἴ τι 2 In the three occurrences of the phrase **if any** in this verse, the words “there is” are implied and can be supplied in your translation if omitting them would be unclear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
PHP 2 1 d63e figs-abstractnouns εἴ τι παραμύθιον ἀγάπης 1 If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract nouns **comfort** and **love** by using them in a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “if being loved by Christ has comforted you” or “if Christ loving you has comforted you” or “if Christ’s love comforts you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 2 1 m84k εἴ τις κοινωνία Πνεύματος 1 if any fellowship of the Spirit The phrase **fellowship of the Spirit** could refer to: (1) the Holy Spirit giving the Philippian Christians fellowship with each other. Alternate translation: “if the Spirit has produced any fellowship among you” or “if the Spirit has given you fellowship with each other” (2) the Philippian Christians fellowship with the Holy Spirit. Alternate translation: “if you have fellowship with the Spirit” (3) both the Holy Spirit giving the Philippian Christians fellowship with each other and to their having fellowship with the Holy Spirit. Alternate translation: “if you have any fellowship with the Spirit and the Spirit has produced in you any fellowship with each other”
PHP 2 1 p977 figs-ellipsis εἴ τις 2 In the three occurrences of the phrase **if any** in this verse, the words “there is” are implied and can be supplied in your translation if omitting them would be unclear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]]
PHP 2 1 l2px figs-abstractnouns εἴ τις σπλάγχνα καὶ οἰκτιρμοί 1 if any affections and compassions If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract nouns **affections** and **compassions** by using them in a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “if you feel any affection and compassion for one another” or “if you have any affection and compassion for each other” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 2 1 a0o6 figs-ellipsis εἴ τις 3 In the three occurrences of the phrase **if any** in this verse, the words “there is” are implied and can be supplied in your translation if omitting them would be unclear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]]
PHP 2 2 j5v2 πληρώσατέ μου τὴν χαρὰν 1 Alternate translation: “make me very happy”
PHP 2 2 jxq2 τὸ αὐτὸ φρονῆτε 1 fulfill my joy Alternate translation: “you think together as one”
PHP 2 2 ve0w τὴν αὐτὴν ἀγάπην ἔχοντες 1 Alternate translation: “have love for each other” or “love one another”
PHP 2 2 yo7j σύνψυχοι 1 Alternate translation: “be one in spirit” or “be one in heart and will”
PHP 2 2 b8gz τὸ ἓν φρονοῦντες 1 Alternate translation: “be concerned about the same things”
PHP 2 3 p0v0 μηδὲν κατ’ ἐριθείαν 1 Alternate translation: “Do not be selfishly ambitious” or “Never try to make yourselves more important than others” or “Do not do anything with an attitude of self-importance”
PHP 2 4 ezk6 μὴ τὰ ἑαυτῶν ἕκαστος σκοποῦντες, ἀλλὰ καὶ τὰ ἑτέρων ἕκαστοι 1 each one not considering the things of himself, but also the things of each other Alternate translation: “each of you caring not only about what you need, but also about what others need”
PHP 2 4 nowd figs-explicit ἕκαστος 1 The phrase **each one** here means “each person”. If it would be clearer in your language consider saying this explicitly. Alternate translation: “each of you” or “everyone of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 2 4 l3q0 figs-pronouns ἑαυτῶν 1 Here, the reflexive pronoun **themselves** is plural in form. If your language has a plural form for this pronoun, consider using it here. Alternate translation: “of yourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pronouns]])
PHP 2 4 qmzl figs-rpronouns ἑαυτῶν 1 Here, the reflexive pronoun **themselves** refers back to **each one**. Alternate translation: “of yourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
PHP 2 5 rh98 figs-abstractnouns τοῦτο φρονεῖτε ἐν ὑμῖν, ὃ καὶ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 Have this attitude in you which also was in Christ Jesus If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **attitude** with a verb such as “think.” Alternate translation: “Think about one another the way Christ Jesus thought of people”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 2 5 tdb2 figs-yousingular ὑμῖν 1 See how you translated **you** in the previous verses. In this letter, with one exception, the words **you** and **your** are plural and refer to the Philippian Christians. If your language uses different forms to show when “you” and “your” refer to one person and when they refer to more than one person, use the plural form that would be appropriate in your language in this occurrence and all other occurrences of “you” and “your” in this letter, except for in [4:3](../04/3.md). A note will discuss the one exception in [4:3](../04/3.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
PHP 2 5 kwoe figs-imperative τοῦτο φρονεῖτε 1 This is a command to the Philippian Christians in the plural form. If your language has a plural command form, use it here. Alternate translation: “Everyone of you have this attitude” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
PHP 2 5 acmu ὃ καὶ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 Here, the word **in** means “belonged to”. The phrase ** which also was in Christ Jesus** therefore refers to the attitude or way of thinking that belonged to Christ Jesus. Alternate translation: “which also belonged to Christ Jesus” or “which Christ Jesus also had” or “which Christ Jesus also displayed”
PHP 2 6 els2 figs-metaphor οὐχ ἁρπαγμὸν ἡγήσατο τὸ εἶναι ἴσα Θεῷ 1 did not consider being equal with God something to be grasped Here to be **equal** refers to “equal status” or “equal honor.” Grasping onto equality with God represents demanding that he continue to be honored as God is honored. Christ did not do that. Though he did not cease to be God, he ceased to act as God. Alternate translation: “did not think that he had to have the same status as God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 2 7 yu25 figs-metaphor ἑαυτὸν ἐκένωσεν 1 he emptied himself Paul speaks of Christ as if he were a container in order to say that Christ refused to act with his divine powers during his ministry on earth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 2 8 t8a6 figs-metaphor γενόμενος ὑπήκοος μέχρι θανάτου 1 having become obedient to the point of death Paul speaks of death here in a figurative way. The translator can understand **to the point of death** either as a metaphor of location (Christ went all the way to death) or as a metaphor of time (Christ was obedient even until the time that he died). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 2 8 hi57 θανάτου δὲ σταυροῦ 1 even death on a cross “even to dying on a cross”
PHP 2 9 mvb7 figs-metonymy τὸ ὄνομα τὸ ὑπὲρ πᾶν ὄνομα 1 the name that is above every name Here, **name** is a metonym that refers to rank or honor. Alternate translation: “the rank that is above any other rank” or “the honor that is above any other honor” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
PHP 2 9 qsy9 figs-metaphor ὑπὲρ πᾶν ὄνομα 1 above every name His **name** is more important, more to be praised than any other name. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 2 10 tk45 figs-synecdoche ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι Ἰησοῦ, πᾶν γόνυ κάμψῃ 1 at the name of Jesus every knee would bend Here, **knee** is a synecdoche for the whole person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
PHP 2 10 xz1u figs-metonymy ἐν τῷ ὀνόματι Ἰησοῦ, πᾶν γόνυ κάμψῃ 1 at the name of Jesus every knee would bend Here bending the knee to kneel on the ground is a metonym for worship. **In the name of** here is a metonym for the person, telling who it is they will worship. Alternate translation: “every person will worship Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
PHP 2 10 kfb4 καταχθονίων 1 under the earth This could mean: (1) This refers to the place where people go when they die. (2) This refers to the place where demons dwell.
PHP 2 11 mr2i figs-metaphor εἰς δόξαν Θεοῦ Πατρὸς 1 to the glory of God the Father Here the word **to** expresses result: “with the result that they will praise God the Father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 2 12 jnp3 0 Connecting Statement: Paul encourages the Philippian believers and shows them how to live the Christian life before others and reminds them of his example.
PHP 2 12 j897 figs-abstractnouns μετὰ φόβου καὶ τρόμου τὴν ἑαυτῶν σωτηρίαν κατεργάζεσθε 1 work out your own salvation with fear and trembling The abstract noun **salvation** can be expressed with a phrase about God saving people. Alternate translation: “with fear and trembling, continue to work hard to do what is proper for those whom God saves” or “with awe and reverence for God, work hard to do the good things that show that he has saved you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
PHP 2 12 cm1s figs-doublet μετὰ φόβου καὶ τρόμου 1 with fear and trembling Paul uses the words **fear** and **trembling** together to show the attitude of reverence that people should have for God. Alternate translation: “trembling with fear” or “with deep reverence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
PHP 2 13 m6b8 καὶ τὸ θέλειν, καὶ τὸ ἐνεργεῖν, ὑπὲρ τῆς εὐδοκίας 1 both to will and to work for his good pleasure “so that you will want to do what pleases him and will be able to do what pleases him”
PHP 2 15 z2lz figs-doublet ἄμεμπτοι καὶ ἀκέραιοι 1 blameless and pure The words **blameless** and **pure** are very similar in meaning and are used together to strenghten the idea. Alternate translation: “completely innocent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
PHP 2 15 p71u figs-metaphor φαίνεσθε ὡς φωστῆρες ἐν κόσμῳ 1 you shine as lights in the world Light represents goodness and truth. To **shine as lights in the world** represents living in a good and righteous way so that people in the world can see that God is good and true. Alternate translation: “you will be examples of goodness and truth in the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 2 15 jb7y figs-doublet μέσον γενεᾶς σκολιᾶς καὶ διεστραμμένης…ἐν κόσμῳ 1 in the world, in the midst of a crooked and depraved generation Here the word **world** refers to the people of the world. The words **crooked** and **depraved** are used together to emphasize that the people are very sinful. Alternate translation: “in the world, among people who are very sinful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
PHP 2 16 u3qb figs-metaphor λόγον ζωῆς ἐπέχοντες 1 holding forth the word of life Here, **holding forth** represents firmly believing. Alternate translation: “continuing to firmly believe the word of life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 2 16 eq86 λόγον ζωῆς 1 the word of life “the message that brings life” or “the message that shows how to live the way God wants you to”
PHP 2 16 q7y8 εἰς ἡμέραν Χριστοῦ 1 on the day of Christ This refers to when Jesus comes back to set up his kingdom and rule over the earth. Alternate translation: “when Christ returns”
PHP 2 16 m5aq figs-parallelism οὐκ εἰς κενὸν ἔδραμον, οὐδὲ εἰς κενὸν ἐκοπίασα 1 I did not run in vain nor labor in vain The phrases **run in vain** and **labor in vain** here mean the same thing. Paul uses them together to emphasize how hard he has worked to help people believe in Christ. Alternate translation: “I did not work so hard for nothing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
PHP 2 16 m1z7 figs-metaphor ἔδραμον 1 I did … run The scriptures often use the image of walking to represent conducting one’s life. To **run** is to live life intensively. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 2 17 bky1 figs-metaphor ἀλλ’ εἰ καὶ σπένδομαι ἐπὶ τῇ θυσίᾳ καὶ λειτουργίᾳ τῆς πίστεως ὑμῶν, χαίρω καὶ συνχαίρω πᾶσιν ὑμῖν 1 But even if I am being poured out as an offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all Paul speaks of his death as if he were a drink **offering** which is **poured out** upon the animal **sacrifice** to honor God. What Paul means is that he would gladly die for the Philippians if that would make them more pleasing to God. Alternate translation: “But, even if the Romans kill me and it is as if my blood pours out as an offering, I will be glad and rejoice with you all if my death will make your faith and obedience more pleasing to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 2 19 dr9c 0 Connecting Statement: Paul tells the Philippian believers about his plan to send Timothy soon and that they should treat Epaphroditus as special.
PHP 2 21 b922 οἱ πάντες γὰρ 1 For they all Here the word **they** refers to a group of people Paul does not feel he can trust to send to Philippi. Paul is also expressing his displeasure with the group, who should have been able to go, but Paul does not trust them to fulfill their mission.
PHP 2 22 gm8i figs-simile ὡς πατρὶ τέκνον, σὺν ἐμοὶ ἐδούλευσεν 1 as a child with his father, he served with me Fathers and sons love each other and work together. Timothy was not really Paul’s **child**, but he worked with Paul as a son works **with his father**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
PHP 2 22 xdn5 figs-metonymy εἰς τὸ εὐαγγέλιον 1 in the gospel Here, **the gospel** stands for the activity of telling people about Jesus. Alternate translation: “in telling people about the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
PHP 2 24 yn62 πέποιθα…ἐν Κυρίῳ, ὅτι καὶ αὐτὸς ταχέως ἐλεύσομαι 1 I am confident in the Lord that I myself will also come soon “I am sure, if it is the Lord’s will, that I will also come soon”
PHP 2 25 k4wz translate-names Ἐπαφρόδιτον 1 Epaphroditus This is the name of a man sent by the Philippian church to minister to Paul in prison. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
PHP 2 25 c3ce figs-metaphor συνεργὸν καὶ συνστρατιώτην 1 fellow worker and fellow soldier Here Paul is speaking of Epaphroditus as if he were a **fellow soldier**. He means that Epaphroditus is trained and is dedicated to serving God, no matter how great the hardship he must suffer. Alternate translation: “fellow believer who works and struggles along with us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 2 25 qsd6 ὑμῶν…ἀπόστολον καὶ λειτουργὸν τῆς χρείας μου 1 your messenger and minister for my needs “who brings your messages to me and helps me when I am in need”
PHP 2 26 gxn9 ἐπιποθῶν ἦν πάντας ὑμᾶς, καὶ ἀδημονῶν 1 he is longing to be with you all and he is distressed “he wanted to be with you all and is very worried”
PHP 2 27 itx2 figs-explicit λύπην ἐπὶ λύπην 1 sorrow upon sorrow The cause of the **sorrow** can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “the sorrow of losing him added to the sorrow I already have from being in prison” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 2 28 y5gc κἀγὼ ἀλυπότερος ὦ 1 and I might be free from pain “I will be less anxious” or “I will not worry as much as I have been”
PHP 2 29 qx14 ἐν Κυρίῳ μετὰ πάσης χαρᾶς 1 in the Lord with all joy “as a fellow believer in the Lord with all joy” or “with the great joy we have because the Lord Jesus loves us”
PHP 2 30 ns1y figs-metaphor μέχρι θανάτου ἤγγισεν 1 he came near even to death Paul here speaks of **death** as if it were a place that one could go to. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 2 30 g98z figs-metaphor ἀναπληρώσῃ τὸ ὑμῶν ὑστέρημα, τῆς πρός με λειτουργίας 1 he might make up your lack of service to me Paul speaks of his needs as if they were a container that Epaphroditus filled with good things for Paul. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 3 intro btx3 0 # Philippians 3 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>In verses 4-8, Paul lists how he qualifies for being considered a righteous Jew. In every way, Paul was an exemplary Jew. But he contrasts this with the greatness of knowing Jesus. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Dogs<br><br>The people of the ancient Near East used dogs as an image to refer to people in a negative way. Not all cultures use the term “dogs” in this way.<br><br>### Resurrected Bodies<br><br>We know very little about what people will be like in heaven. Paul teaches here that Christians will have some kind of glorious body and will be free from sin. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/heaven]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])<br><br>## Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>### Prize<br><br>Paul uses an extended illustration to describe the Christian life. The goal of the Christian life is attempting to grow to be like Christ until a person dies. We can never achieve this goal perfectly, but we must strive for it.
PHP 3 1 e79h 0 Connecting Statement: In order to warn his fellow believers about Jews who would try to get them to follow the old laws, Paul gives his own testimony about when he persecuted believers.
PHP 3 1 qb78 figs-explicit ὑμῖν δὲ ἀσφαλές 1 and is a safeguard for you You can state explicitly how writing these things is a **safeguard** for the Philippians. Alternate translation: “because these teachings will protect you from those who teach what is not true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 3 2 ny6y βλέπετε 1 Beware “Watch out for” or “Look out for”
PHP 3 2 zin8 τοὺς κύνας…τοὺς κακοὺς ἐργάτας…τὴν κατατομήν 1 the dogs … the evil workers … the mutilation These are three different ways of describing the same group of false teachers. Paul is using strong expressions to convey his feeling about these Jewish Christian teachers.
PHP 3 2 yr9n figs-irony τοὺς κύνας 1 the dogs The word **dogs** was used by the Jews to refer to those who were not Jews. Paul reverses this and calls the Jews “dogs.”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
PHP 3 2 yeax figs-metaphor τοὺς κύνας 1 the dogs Paul speaks of the false teachers as though they were **dogs**, to insult them, because dogs were unclean. If you have a different animal in your culture that is considered unclean or whose name is used as an insult, you could use this animal instead. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 3 2 cka6 figs-hyperbole τὴν κατατομήν 1 the mutilation Paul is exaggerating about the act of circumcision to insult the false teachers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
PHP 3 2 x8r2 figs-metonymy τὴν κατατομήν 1 the mutilation Here, **mutilation** refers to the people who were circumcized, and represents the Jews who were all circumcized. The false teachers said God will only save a person who is circumcised, who cuts off the foreskin. This action was required by the law of Moses for all male Israelites. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
PHP 3 3 y8yt figs-exclusive ἡμεῖς γάρ ἐσμεν 1 For we are Paul uses **we** to refer to himself and all true believers in Christ, including the Philippian believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
PHP 3 3 xt5r ἡ περιτομή 1 the circumcision Paul uses this phrase to refer to believers in Christ who are not physically circumcised but are spiritually circumcised, which means they have received the Holy Spirit through faith. Alternate translation: “the truly circumcised ones” or “truly God’s people”
PHP 3 4 e346 figs-hypo καίπερ 1 although Paul is introducing a hypothetical situation that could not possibly exist. Alternate translation: “although if I wanted to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
PHP 3 4 upw5 figs-hypo ἐγὼ ἔχων πεποίθησιν καὶ ἐν σαρκί. εἴ τις δοκεῖ ἄλλος πεποιθέναι ἐν σαρκί, ἐγὼ μᾶλλον 1 I myself, having confidence even in the flesh. If anyone else seems to have confidence in the flesh, I even more This is a hypothetical situation that Paul does not believe is possible. Paul says if it were possible that God would save people based on what they did, then God would certainly have saved him. Alternate translation: “no one can do enough things to please God, but if anyone could do enough things to please God, I could do more good things and please God more than anyone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
PHP 3 5 p4ik Ἑβραῖος ἐξ Ἑβραίων 1 a Hebrew of Hebrews This could mean: (1) This refers to a Hebrew son with Hebrew parents. (2) This refers to the purest Hebrew.
PHP 3 5 we4t κατὰ νόμον Φαρισαῖος 1 according to the law, a Pharisee The Pharisees were committed to obeying all of the law. Being a **Pharisee** showed that Paul was committed to obeying all of **the law**. Alternate translation: “as a Pharisee, I was committed to obeying all of the law”
PHP 3 6 ksr3 κατὰ ζῆλος διώκων τὴν ἐκκλησίαν 1 according to zeal, persecuting the church Paul’s zeal was his enthusiasm for honoring God. He believed that by **persecuting the church** he proved how zealous he was for God. Alternate translation: “having so much zeal for God that I persecuted the church” or “wanting so much to honor God, I persecuted the church”
PHP 3 6 hln8 κατὰ δικαιοσύνην τὴν ἐν νόμῳ γενόμενος ἄμεμπτος 1 according to righteousness that is under the law, having become blameless The phrase **righteousness that is under the law** refers to being righteous by obeying the law. Paul obeyed the law so carefully that he believed that no one could find any part of it that he disobeyed. Alternate Translation: “being so righteous by obeying the law that I was blameless”
PHP 3 7 n4lg figs-metaphor ἅτινα ἦν μοι κέρδη 1 Whatever was a profit for me Paul is referring here to the praise he received for being an eager Pharisee. He speaks of this praise as if he had viewed it in the past as a businessman’s profit. Alternate translation: “Anything that other Jews praised me for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 3 7 lb8f κέρδη…ζημίαν 1 a profit … loss These are common business terms. If many people in your culture do not understand formal business terms, you could translate these terms as “things that made my life better” and “things that made my life worse.”
PHP 3 7 y1sg figs-metaphor ταῦτα ἥγημαι…ζημίαν 1 I consider this loss Paul speaks of that praise as if he were now viewing it as a business **loss** instead of a profit. In other words, Paul says that all his religious acts of righteousness are worthless before Christ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 3 8 e1fp figs-metaphor καὶ ἡγοῦμαι πάντα ζημίαν εἶναι 1 I consider even all things to be loss Paul is continuing the business metaphor from [Philippians 3:7](../03/07.md), saying it is worthless to trust in anything other than Christ. Alternate translation: “I consider everything to be worthless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 3 8 cv55 διὰ τὸ ὑπερέχον τῆς γνώσεως Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ τοῦ Κυρίου μου 1 because of the surpassing value of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord “because knowing Christ Jesus my Lord is worth so much more”
PHP 3 9 iy4k figs-idiom εὑρεθῶ ἐν αὐτῷ 1 be found in him The phrase **be found** is an idiom that emphasizes the idea of “to be.” Alternate translation: “be truly united with Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
PHP 3 9 g9a9 μὴ ἔχων ἐμὴν δικαιοσύνην, τὴν ἐκ νόμου 1 not having my own righteousness that is from the law Paul knows that he cannot become righteous by obeying the law.
PHP 3 9 qw6g ἀλλὰ τὴν διὰ πίστεως Χριστοῦ 1 but that which is through faith in Christ The word **that** refers to righteousness. Paul knows that he can become righteous only by believing in Christ. Alternate translation: “but having the righteousness that comes by believing in Christ”
PHP 3 10 vj4s τὴν δύναμιν τῆς ἀναστάσεως αὐτοῦ 1 the power of his resurrection “his power that gives us life”
PHP 3 10 xm68 κοινωνίαν παθημάτων αὐτοῦ 1 the fellowship of his sufferings “what it is like to suffer as he suffered” or “what it is like to participate in suffering with him”
PHP 3 10 xw42 figs-metonymy συμμορφιζόμενος τῷ θανάτῳ αὐτοῦ 1 being conformed to his death This could mean: (1) Paul wants to be like Christ by dying as Christ died. (2) Paul wants his desire to sin to become as dead as Jesus was before he was raised. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
PHP 3 11 l4rm εἴ πως καταντήσω εἰς τὴν ἐξανάστασιν τὴν ἐκ νεκρῶν 1 if somehow I might attain to the resurrection that is from the dead The word **somehow** means Paul does not know what is going to happen to him in this life, but whatever happens, it will result in eternal life. Alternate translation: “so that, no matter what happens to me now, I will come back to life after I die”
PHP 3 12 xk5q 0 Connecting Statement: Paul urges the believers at Philippi to follow his present example because of heaven and the new bodies that wait for believers. He speaks of how he works as hard as he can to be like Christ, knowing that God will allow him to live forever in heaven, as if he were a runner racing for the finish line.
PHP 3 12 ms3v ἤδη ἔλαβον 1 I already received it These include knowing Christ, knowing the power of his resurrection, sharing in Christ’s suffering, and being united with Christ in his death and resurrection ([Philippians 3:8-11](./08.md)).
PHP 3 12 m52v figs-activepassive καταλάβω, ἐφ’ ᾧ καὶ κατελήμφθην ὑπὸ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ 1 I might grasp that for which I was also grasped by Christ Jesus You can state this in an active form. Alternate translation: “to grasp the things for which Christ Jesus grasped me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
PHP 3 12 fr9q figs-metaphor καταλάβω, ἐφ’ ᾧ καὶ κατελήμφθην ὑπὸ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ 1 I might grasp that for which I was also grasped by Christ Jesus Receiving spiritual things from **Christ** is spoken of as if Paul could grasp them with his hands. And, **Jesus** choosing Paul to belong to him is spoken of as if Jesus **grasped** Paul with his hands. Alternate translation: “I may receive these things because that is why Jesus claimed me as his own” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 3 13 kqk7 figs-metaphor ἐγὼ ἐμαυτὸν οὐ λογίζομαι κατειληφέναι 1 I do not consider myself to have grasped it Receiving spiritual things from Christ is spoken of as if Paul could grasp them with his hands. Alternate translation: “I do not consider that all these things belong to me yet” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 3 13 ia2b figs-metaphor τὰ μὲν ὀπίσω ἐπιλανθανόμενος, τοῖς δὲ ἔμπροσθεν ἐπεκτεινόμενος 1 forgetting what is behind and straining for what is ahead Like a runner in a race is no longer concerned about the part of the race that is completed but only focuses on what is **ahead**, Paul speaks of setting aside his religious works of righteousness and only focusing on the race of life that Christ has set before him to complete. Alternate translation: “not caring what I have done in the past; I only work as hard as I can on what is ahead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 3 14 z39s figs-metaphor κατὰ σκοπὸν διώκω εἰς τὸ βραβεῖον τῆς ἄνω κλήσεως τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 I press on toward the goal to the prize of the upward calling of God in Christ Jesus As a runner presses onward to win the race and a **prize**, Paul presses onward in serving and living in obedience to **Christ**. Alternate translation: “I do all I can to be like Christ, like a runner racing to the finish line, so that I may belong to him, and God may call me to himself after I die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 3 14 lmr6 figs-metaphor τῆς ἄνω κλήσεως 1 of the upward calling This could mean: (1) Paul speaks of living eternally with God as if God were to call Paul to ascend to heaven as Jesus did. (2) Paul speaks of living eternally with God as if God were to call Paul to ascend to the steps of the podium where winners of races received prizes, as a metaphor for meeting God face to face and receiving eternal life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 3 15 de4y ὅσοι…τέλειοι, τοῦτο φρονῶμεν 1 as many as are perfect should think this way Paul wants his fellow believers to have the same desires he listed in [Philippians 3:8-11](./08.md). Alternate translation: “I encourage all of us believers who are strong in the faith to think the same way”
PHP 3 15 yy22 καὶ τοῦτο ὁ Θεὸς ὑμῖν ἀποκαλύψει 1 God will also reveal that to you “God will also make it clear to you” or “God will make sure you know it”
PHP 3 16 pxn9 figs-exclusive εἰς ὃ ἐφθάσαμεν, τῷ αὐτῷ στοιχεῖν 1 in what we have attained, we should live in it Paul uses **we** to include the Philippian believers. Alternate translation: “let us all continue obeying the same truth we have already received” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
PHP 3 17 jed4 συνμιμηταί μου γίνεσθε 1 Become imitators of me “Do what I do” or “Live as I live”
PHP 3 17 h4tv τοὺς οὕτω περιπατοῦντας, καθὼς ἔχετε τύπον ἡμᾶς 1 those who are thus walking, just as you have us as an example “those who already are living just as I live” or “those who already are doing what I do”
PHP 3 18 ab61 πολλοὶ…περιπατοῦσιν…τοὺς ἐχθροὺς τοῦ σταυροῦ τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 many walk … as enemies of the cross of Christ These words are Paul’s main thought for this verse.
PHP 3 18 kr19 figs-metaphor πολλοὶ…περιπατοῦσιν 1 many walk A person’s behavior is spoken of as if that person would **walk** along a path. Alternate translation: “many live” or “many conduct their lives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 3 18 x2lu οὓς πολλάκις ἔλεγον ὑμῖν, νῦν δὲ καὶ κλαίων, λέγω 1 about whom I have often told you, but now even weeping, I say Paul interrupts his main thought with these words that describe the “many.” You can move them to the beginning or end of the verse if you need to.
PHP 3 18 n8q2 figs-metonymy τοὺς ἐχθροὺς τοῦ σταυροῦ τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 as enemies of the cross of Christ Here, **the cross of Christ** refers to Christ’s suffering and death. The **enemies** are those who say they believe in Jesus but are not willing to suffer or die like Jesus did. Alternate translation: “in a way that shows they are actually against Jesus, who was willing to suffer and die on a cross” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
PHP 3 19 v8gv ὧν τὸ τέλος ἀπώλεια 1 whose end is destruction “but someday God will destroy them.” The last thing that happens to them is that God will destroy them.
PHP 3 19 hn9i figs-metaphor ὧν ὁ Θεὸς ἡ κοιλία 1 whose god is their belly Here, **belly** refers to a person’s desires for physical pleasure. Calling it their **god** means that they want these pleasures more than they want to obey God. Alternate translation: “they desire food and other physical pleasures more than they desire to obey God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 3 19 u9cl figs-metonymy ἡ δόξα ἐν τῇ αἰσχύνῃ αὐτῶν 1 their glory is in their shame Here, **shame** stands for the actions that the people should be ashamed about but are not. Alternate translation: “they are proud of the things that should cause them shame” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
PHP 3 19 sv5z figs-metonymy οἱ τὰ ἐπίγεια φρονοῦντες 1 who are thinking about earthly things Here, **earthly** refers to everything that gives physical pleasure and does not honor God. Alternate translation: “All they think about is what will please themselves rather than what will please God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
PHP 3 20 q1cc figs-exclusive 0 General Information: By Paul’s use of “our” and “we” here, he includes himself and the believers in Philippi. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
PHP 3 20 n2lh ἡμῶν…τὸ πολίτευμα ἐν οὐρανοῖς ὑπάρχει 1 our citizenship exists in heaven This could mean: (1) We are citizens of heaven. (2) Our homeland is heaven. (3) Our true home is heaven.
PHP 3 21 qz6p figs-activepassive τῷ σώματι τῆς δόξης αὐτοῦ, κατὰ τὴν ἐνέργειαν τοῦ δύνασθαι αὐτὸν, καὶ ὑποτάξαι αὑτῷ τὰ πάντα 1 to his glorious body, according to the working of his power even to subject all things to himself You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “to his glorious body. He will change our bodies with the same power he uses to control all things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
PHP 4 intro rp5c 0 # Philippians 4 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### “My joy and my crown”<br><br>Paul had helped the Philippians become spiritually mature. As a result, Paul rejoiced and God honored him and his work. He considered discipling other Christians and encouraging them to grow spiritually as important to Christian living. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/disciple]])<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Euodia and Syntyche<br><br>Apparently, these two women disagreed with each other. Paul was encouraging them to agree. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 4 1 zk6q figs-you 0 General Information: When Paul says, “my true companion,” The word **you** is singular. Paul does not say the name of the person. He calls him that to show he worked with Paul to spread the gospel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
PHP 4 1 xmc4 0 Connecting Statement: Paul continues with some specific instructions to the believers in Philippi on unity and then gives instructions to help them live for the Lord.
PHP 4 1 fe2y ἀδελφοί μου ἀγαπητοὶ καὶ ἐπιπόθητοι 1 my brothers, beloved and longed for “my fellow believers, I love you and I greatly desire to see you”
PHP 4 1 wx5w figs-metonymy χαρὰ καὶ στέφανός μου 1 my joy and crown Paul uses the word **joy** to mean that the Philippian church is the cause of his happiness. A **crown** was made of leaves, and a man wore it on his head as a sign of honor after he won an important game. Here the word **crown** means the Philippian church brought honor to Paul before God. Alternate translation: “since you give me joy because you have believed in Jesus, and you are my reward and honor for my work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
PHP 4 1 dz44 οὕτως στήκετε ἐν Κυρίῳ, ἀγαπητοί 1 in this way stand firm in the Lord, beloved “so continue living for the Lord in the way that I have taught you, dear friends”
PHP 4 2 x5qf translate-names Εὐοδίαν παρακαλῶ, καὶ Συντύχην παρακαλῶ 1 I urge Euodia, and I urge Syntyche These are women who were believers and helped Paul in the church at Philippi. Alternate translation: “I beg Euodia, and I beg Syntyche” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
PHP 4 2 iyq7 figs-metonymy τὸ αὐτὸ φρονεῖν ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 to think the same in the Lord The phrase **to think the same** means to have the same attitude or opinion. Alternate translation: “to agree with each other because you both believe in the same Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
PHP 4 3 yb3f figs-yousingular ἐρωτῶ καὶ σέ 1 I also ask you Here, **you** refers to the **true companion** and is singular. This is the only occurrence of the word **you** in Philippians that is singular. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
PHP 4 3 hdz7 figs-metaphor γνήσιε σύνζυγε 1 true companion This metaphor is from farming, where two animals would be bound to the same yoke, and so they work together. Alternate translation: “fellow worker” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 4 3 cm3u translate-names μετὰ καὶ Κλήμεντος 1 with also Clement **Clement** was a man who was a believer and worker in the church at Philippi. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
PHP 4 3 s9h9 ὧν τὰ ὀνόματα ἐν βίβλῳ ζωῆς 1 whose names are in the Book of Life “whose names God has written in the Book of Life”
PHP 4 4 elt7 χαίρετε ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 Rejoice in the Lord “be happy because of all the Lord has done.” See how you translated this in [Philippians 3:1](../03/01.md).
PHP 4 5 snk5 ὁ Κύριος ἐγγύς 1 The Lord is near This could mean: (1) The Lord Jesus is near to the believers in spirit. (2) The day the Lord Jesus will return to the earth is near.
PHP 4 6 h63g ἐν παντὶ, τῇ προσευχῇ καὶ τῇ δεήσει μετὰ εὐχαριστίας, τὰ αἰτήματα ὑμῶν γνωριζέσθω πρὸς τὸν Θεόν 1 in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be known to God “whatever happens to you, ask God for everything you need with prayer and thanks”
PHP 4 7 u1sz ἡ εἰρήνη τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 the peace of God “the peace that God gives”
PHP 4 7 zr4x ἡ ὑπερέχουσα πάντα νοῦν 1 which surpasses all understanding “which is more than we can understand”
PHP 4 7 sb6s figs-personification φρουρήσει τὰς καρδίας ὑμῶν καὶ τὰ νοήματα ὑμῶν ἐν Χριστῷ 1 will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ This presents God’s peace as a soldier who protects our **hearts** and **minds** from worrying. Alternate translation: “will be like a soldier and guard your hearts and minds in Christ”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
PHP 4 7 tsz6 figs-metonymy φρουρήσει τὰς καρδίας ὑμῶν καὶ τὰ νοήματα ὑμῶν ἐν Χριστῷ 1 will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Here, **hearts** is a metonym for a person’s emotions. Alternate translation: “will guard your emotions and thoughts in Christ” or “will protect you in Christ and will keep you from worrying about the troubles of this life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
PHP 4 9 m145 ἃ καὶ ἐμάθετε καὶ παρελάβετε, καὶ ἠκούσατε καὶ εἴδετε, ἐν ἐμοί 1 And what you learned and received and heard and saw in me “And everything that I have taught and shown you”
PHP 4 10 pwh9 0 Connecting Statement: Paul begins to thank the Philippians for a gift that they have sent him. He begins in verse 11 to explain that he is thanking them for this gift simply because he is grateful, not because he needs them to give him anything more.
PHP 4 11 ew5e ἐν οἷς εἰμι 1 in whatever I am “no matter what my situation is”
PHP 4 12 lgp9 figs-explicit οἶδα καὶ ταπεινοῦσθαι, οἶδα καὶ περισσεύειν 1 I know both how to be brought low and I know how to abound Paul knows how to live happily having either no possessions or many possessions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 4 12 i9vp figs-parallelism χορτάζεσθαι καὶ πεινᾶν, καὶ περισσεύειν καὶ ὑστερεῖσθαι 1 to being filled and to being hungry, and to abounding and to being in need These two phrases mean basically the same thing. Paul uses them to emphasize that he has learned how to be content in any situation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
PHP 4 12 xrp3 figs-merism χορτάζεσθαι καὶ πεινᾶν 1 to be filled and to be hungry This phrase is a merism. Paul refers to both extremes to say that he is comfortable with any amount of food. Alternate translation: “no matter what amount of food I have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
PHP 4 12 ufv4 figs-merism περισσεύειν καὶ ὑστερεῖσθαι 1 to abound and to be in need This phrase is a merism. Paul refers to both extremes to say that he is comfortable with any amount of possessions. Alternate translation: “no matter what amount of things I have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
PHP 4 13 z1pb πάντα ἰσχύω ἐν τῷ ἐνδυναμοῦντί με 1 I can do all things in him who strengthens me “I can do all things because Christ gives me strength”
PHP 4 14 bs72 0 Connecting Statement: Paul continues explaining that he is thanking the Philippians for their gift to him simply because he is grateful, not because he needs them to give him anything more (see [Philippians 3:11](../03/11.md)).
PHP 4 14 fe2z figs-metaphor μου τῇ θλίψει 1 in my affliction Paul speaks of his hardships as if they were a place that he was in. Alternate translation: “when things became difficult” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 4 15 w23w figs-metonymy ἀρχῇ τοῦ εὐαγγελίου 1 the beginning of the gospel Paul refers to the **gospel** here as meaning his preaching of the gospel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
PHP 4 15 dyf8 figs-doublenegatives οὐδεμία μοι ἐκκλησία ἐκοινώνησεν εἰς λόγον δόσεως καὶ λήμψεως, εἰ μὴ ὑμεῖς μόνοι 1 no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving except you alone You can state this in the positive. Alternate translation: “you were the only church that sent me money or helped me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
PHP 4 17 e9g9 οὐχ ὅτι ἐπιζητῶ τὸ δόμα 1 Not that I seek the gift Paul is explaining that his reason for writing about gifts is not that he hopes that they will give him more gifts. Alternate Translation: “My reason for writing this is not that I want you to give me more”
PHP 4 17 bh3t figs-metaphor ἐπιζητῶ τὸν καρπὸν τὸν πλεονάζοντα εἰς λόγον ὑμῶν 1 I seek the fruit that increases to your account Paul explains his reason for writing about gifts. Here, **fruit that increases to your account** is a metaphor for either: (1) It refers to more good deeds that can be recorded for the Philippians. Alternate translation: “Rather I want God to recognize the increasing good deeds that you do” (2) It refers to more blessings for the good things that the Philippians do. Alternate translation: “Rather I want God to bless you more because of the good deeds that you do”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 4 18 p6y1 0 Connecting Statement: Paul finishes thanking the Philippians for their gift (see [Philippians 3:11](../03/11.md)) and assures them that God will take care of them.
PHP 4 18 fs44 ἀπέχω…πάντα 1 I have everything in full This could mean: (1) Paul has received **everything** that the Philippians sent. (2) Paul is using humor to continue the business metaphor from [Philippians 3:8](../03/08.md) and saying that this part of the letter is a receipt for commercial goods that Epaphroditus delivered.
PHP 4 18 en6t figs-explicit περισσεύω 1 I abound Paul means that he has plenty of the things that he needs for himself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
PHP 4 18 s68v figs-metaphor ὀσμὴν εὐωδίας, θυσίαν δεκτήν, εὐάρεστον τῷ Θεῷ 1 an aroma, a sweet smell, an acceptable, pleasing sacrifice to God Paul speaks of the gift from the Philippian church as if it were a **sacrifice** offered to **God** on an altar. Paul implies that the church’s gift is very **pleasing** to God, like the sacrifices that the priests burned, which had a **smell** that pleased God. Alternate translation: “I assure you these gifts are very pleasing to God, like an acceptable sacrifice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
PHP 4 19 r96p figs-idiom πληρώσει πᾶσαν χρείαν ὑμῶν 1 will fulfill all your needs The word for **will fulfill** is the same word translated as “have been fulfilled” in verse 18. This phrase is an idiom meaning “will provide everything you need” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
PHP 4 19 xmk2 κατὰ τὸ πλοῦτος αὐτοῦ ἐν δόξῃ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus “from his glorious riches that he gives through Christ Jesus”
PHP 4 22 rg96 μάλιστα…οἱ ἐκ τῆς Καίσαρος οἰκίας 1 especially those from the household of Caesar This refers to servants who worked in Caesar’s palace. “especially the fellow believers who work in the palace of Caesar”
PHP 4 23 a3f8 figs-synecdoche μετὰ τοῦ πνεύματος ὑμῶν 1 be with your spirit Paul refers to the believers by using the word **spirit,** which is what enables humans to relate to God. Alternate translation: “be with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
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