unfoldingWord_en_tn/en_tn_51-PHP.tsv

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2PHPfrontintropv9j0# 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. Pauls 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 “Pauls 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 words “you” and “your” always refer to the believers in Philippi except for one time in 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 Gods 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 versions have “Amen” at the end of the final verse in the letter (4:23). The ULT, UST, and other many modern versions do not. If “Amen” is included, it should be put inside square brackets ([]) to indicate that it is probably not original to the Book of Philippians.<br><br>(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
3PHP1introkd3g0# 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))
4PHP11xk9ztranslate-namesΠαῦλος καὶ Τιμόθεος1Paul and Timothy**Paul** and **Timothy** are the names of men. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
5PHP12uueptranslate-blessingχάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη1Grace to you and peaceThis 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]])
6PHP12pyjifigs-yousingularὑμῖν1Here, **you** refers to the the Philippian Christians and is plural in form in the original language that Paul wrote this letter in. 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]])
7PHP13ntp5ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ μνείᾳ ὑμῶν1in all my remembrance of youHere, **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”
8PHP13w8dzfigs-yousingularὑμῶν1See how you translated the word **you** in [1:2](../01/2.md).
9PHP15bca2ἐπὶ τῇ κοινωνίᾳ ὑμῶν εἰς τὸ εὐαγγέλιον, ἀπὸ τῆς πρώτης ἡμέρας ἄχρι τοῦ νῦν1Here, **because** could refer to: (1) the reason for Pauls 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”
10PHP15fdqefigs-yousingularὑμῶν1Here, 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]])
11PHP15yi9lfigs-explicitτῇ κοινωνίᾳ ὑμῶν εἰς τὸ εὐαγγέλιον1because of your fellowship in the gospelHere, **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 plainly. 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]])
12PHP15vi1rfigs-explicitἀπὸ τῆς πρώτης ἡμέρας ἄχρι τοῦ νῦν1The 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. Alternate translation: “from the time you first heard and believed the gospel I preached to you, until now” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
13PHP16s1l8figs-explicitπεποιθὼς αὐτὸ τοῦτο1having been persuadedThe 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]])
14PHP16jf4xfigs-explicitὁ ἐναρξάμενος1the one having begunHere, **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]])
15PHP16u80afigs-explicitὅτι ὁ ἐναρξάμενος ἐν ὑμῖν ἔργον ἀγαθὸν1The phrase **good work in you** refers to both the initial conversion of the Philippian Christians and to Gods ongoing work in their lives through the Holy Spirit. 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 continuing it through the work of the Holy Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
16PHP16qhmhfigs-explicit ὑμῖν1See how you translated the word **you** in [Philippians 1:2](../01/2.md).
17PHP16p2a5figs-explicitἐπιτελέσει1Here, **will perfect it** means that God would 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 that explicitly. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
18PHP16p5pufigs-explicitἡμέρας Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ1The 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]])
19PHP17sowffigs-idiomτὸ ἔχειν με ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ ὑμᾶς1I have you in my heartThe 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 may state this using plain language. Alternate translation: “I love you very much” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
20PHP17jn2sσυνκοινωνούς μου τῆς χάριτος…ὄντας1being partakers with me of graceAlternate translation: “sharing in grace with me”
21PHP17r3jpfigs-metonymyἔχειν με ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ ὑμᾶς1Paul 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 Pauls 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]])
22PHP17df00figs-explicitχάριτος1Here, 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. Alternate translation: See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
23PHP17o7effigs-metonymyδεσμοῖς μου1Paul 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]])
24PHP17dv6xἀπολογίᾳ1At 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 here.
25PHP17cp9oβεβαιώσει1At 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 here.
26PHP18xun1figs-idiomἐν σπλάγχνοις Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ1in the bowels of Christ JesusThe 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]])
27PHP19w910figs-abstractnounsἐν ἐπιγνώσει καὶ πάσῃ αἰσθήσει1The 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]])
28PHP19f4q5ὑμῶν1See how you translated the word **your** in [Philippians 1:5](../01/5.md).
29PHP19tbttfigs-abstractnounsἐν ἐπιγνώσει καὶ πάσῃ αἰσθήσει1The 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]])
30PHP110e17gεἰς τὸ δοκιμάζειν ὑμᾶς τὰ διαφέροντα1Alternate translation: “so that you may approve and choose what pleases God”
31PHP110ybw6grammar-connect-logic-resultεἰς1Here, 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]])
32PHP110s4ecτὰ διαφέροντα1what excelsAlternate translation: “what is most pleasing to God”
33PHP110siv8figs-doubletεἰλικρινεῖς καὶ ἀπρόσκοποι1pure and blamelessThe 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]])
34PHP111lu5nfigs-metaphorπεπληρωμένοι καρπὸν δικαιοσύνης τὸν διὰ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1Here, 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 Christ produces” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
35PHP111t3w4figs-activepassiveπεπληρωμένοι1The 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]])
36PHP112tu2tfigs-gendernotationsἀδελφοί1brothersAlthough 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” or see UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
37PHP112zy4gfigs-explicitτὰ κατ’ ἐμὲ, μᾶλλον εἰς προκοπὴν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου ἐλήλυθεν1the things concerning meThe phrase **the things concerning me** refers to Pauls 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]])
38PHP112q288μᾶλλον εἰς προκοπὴν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου ἐλήλυθεν1have really happened for the advancement of the gospelAlternate translation: “have actually caused more people to hear the gospel”
39PHP113wi6ngrammar-connect-logic-resultὥστε1my chains in Christ became apparent among the whole palace guard and all the othersHere, the phrase **As a result** introduces the result of Pauls circumstances which he began discussing in verse 12. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
40PHP113h1lyδεσμούς μου1my chains in Christ became apparentSee how you translated this phrase in [1:7](../01/7.md).
41PHP113f8azfigs-explicitτοὺς δεσμούς μου…ἐν Χριστῷ1my chains in ChristHere, the preposition **in** used in the phrase **chains in Christ** could refer to: (1) that Pauls 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 was 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]])
42PHP113dm1mtranslate-unknownπραιτωρίῳ1the whole palace guardThe 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]])
43PHP114a1khἀδελφῶν1See how you translated **brothers** in the previous verse [1:12](../01/12.md).
44PHP114gy47figs-explicitπλείονας τῶν ἀδελφῶν ἐν Κυρίῳ πεποιθότας τοῖς δεσμοῖς μου, περισσοτέρως τολμᾶν ἀφόβως τὸν λόγον λαλεῖν1fearlessly to speak the wordThe 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 Pauls 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]])
45PHP114sz29figs-explicitἐν Κυρίῳ πεποιθότας τοῖς δεσμοῖς μου1The phrase **encouraged in the Lord** means that the Philippian Christians had become more confident in Christ by Pauls 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]])
46PHP114ecy8δεσμοῖς μου1See how you translated the phrase **my chains** in [1:7](../01/7.md) and [1:13](../01/13.md).
47PHP114v2wofigs-explicit]τὸν λόγον1Here, **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” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
48PHP115vw1sτινὲς μὲν καὶ…τὸν Χριστὸν κηρύσσουσιν1Some indeed even proclaim ChristAlternate translation: “Some people are preaching the good news about Jesus”
49PHP115z9y9figs-abstractnounsδιὰ φθόνον καὶ ἔριν1If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract nouns **envy** and **strife** by using them in a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “because they are envious and seek their own evil purposes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
50PHP115yh1cfigs-abstractnounsεὐδοκίαν1If 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]])
51PHP116ttr2figs-activepassiveεἰς ἀπολογίαν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου κεῖμαι1I am appointed for the defense of the gospelYou 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]])
52PHP116w0b8figs-explicitἐξ ἀγάπης1Here, 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]])
53PHP116st7kεἰς ἀπολογίαν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου1for the defense of the gospelAlternate translation: “to prove that the message about Jesus is true”
54PHP116ia9lfigs-explicitεἰς ἀπολογίαν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου κεῖμαι1The phrase **I am appointed** could refer to: (1) God appointing Pauls 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]])
55PHP117z8tyfigs-metonymyδεσμοῖς1in my chainsSee 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]])
56PHP117tc1ufigs-explicitοἱ δὲ ἐξ ἐριθείας τὸν Χριστὸν καταγγέλλουσιν, οὐχ ἁγνῶς οἰόμενοι θλῖψιν ἐγείρειν τοῖς δεσμοῖς μου1Alternate 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]])
57PHP118dc7lfigs-rquestionτί γάρ1The 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]])
58PHP118z5iafigs-ellipsisτί γάρ1What 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 here 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]])
59PHP118sw24figs-activepassiveκαταγγέλλεται1The 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]])
60PHP118cf58χαρήσομαι1I will rejoiceAlternate translation: “I will celebrate” or “I will be glad”
61PHP119sazefigs-explicitτοῦτό1Here, the word **this** refers to Pauls 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]])
62PHP119h9hffigs-abstractnounsοἶδα γὰρ ὅτι τοῦτό μοι ἀποβήσεται εἰς σωτηρίαν1to me in deliveranceThe 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]])
63PHP119c48jτοῦ Πνεύματος Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1of the Spirit of Jesus ChristThe phrase **the Spirit of Jesus Christ** is referring to the Holy Spirit.
64PHP120fh48figs-hendiadysἀποκαραδοκίαν καὶ ἐλπίδα1according to my eager expectation and hopeThis 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]])
65PHP120tk7lfigs-abstractnounsκατὰ τὴν ἀποκαραδοκίαν καὶ ἐλπίδα μου1but in everything have boldnessBoth **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]])
66PHP120jz1zfigs-metonymyἐν τῷ σώματί μου1Christ will be exalted in my bodyHere, the phrase **in my body** is used figuratively to represent the activities that Paul did 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]])
67PHP120y78kεἴτε διὰ ζωῆς εἴτε διὰ θανάτου1whether through life or through deathAlternate translation: “whether I live or die”
68PHP121n3jdfigs-abstractnounsκέρδος1to die is gainThe 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]])
69PHP122a21cfigs-synecdocheἐν σαρκί1Now if to live in the fleshHere, the phrase **in the flesh** means “in the body”. Paul is using the word **flesh** figuratively to refer to his entire body. Pauls 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]])
70PHP122mwl6figs-metaphorτοῦτό μοι καρπὸς ἔργου1this is fruitful labor for meHere, the word **fruitful** refers to Pauls work producing good results. This is a metaphor in which Pauls 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]])
71PHP122kxuufigs-abstractnounsἔργου1The 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]])
72PHP123tq29figs-metaphorσυνέχομαι δὲ ἐκ τῶν δύο1But I am hard pressed between the twoThe 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 decision 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]])
73PHP123j1svfigs-activepassiveσυνέχομαι1The 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]])
74PHP123q0n1figs-explicitτῶν δύο1Here, 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]])
75PHP123u1zsfigs-abstractnounsἐπιθυμίαν1The 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]])
76PHP123hhjrfigs-euphemismἀναλῦσαι1Here, 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 this 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]])
77PHP124etlyfigs-explicitτὸ δὲ ἐπιμένειν ἐν τῇ σαρκὶ1The phrase **remain in the flesh** means to remain alive in ones 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]])
78PHP124k2j7figs-ellipsisἀναγκαιότερον1In 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]])
79PHP124o4fkfigs-synecdocheσαρκὶ1See how you translated the phrase **flesh** in [1:22](../01/22.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
80PHP124hnl7ὑμᾶς1 See how you translated the word **your** in [1:5](../01/5.md).
81PHP125bu8dfigs-explicitκαὶ τοῦτο πεποιθὼς1having been persuaded of thisThe 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]])
82PHP125kmp4figs-extrainfoμενῶ1I know that I will remainHere, the word **remain** refers to remaining alive on earth in ones 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]])
83PHP125rruyfigs-yousingularὑμῖν1See how you translated the word **you** in [1:2](../01/2.md).
84PHP125u0ibfigs-abstractnounsεἰς τὴν ὑμῶν προκοπὴν1If 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]])
85PHP125xvx9figs-abstractnounsχαρὰν τῆς πίστεως1If 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]])
86PHP125h6f2ὑμῶν1See how you translated the word **your** in [1:5](../01/5.md).
87PHP126viwqgrammar-connect-logic-goalἵνα1Here, 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]])
88PHP126d906figs-abstractnounsκαύχημα1If 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]])
89PHP126an70καύχημα…ἐν1Here, the word **boasting** means to “glory in” Jesus or to “take joy in” him. Alternate translation: “glorying in” or “rejoicing in”
90PHP126j1d2figs-goπαρουσίας1Your 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 lived, 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]])
91PHP126ay37grammar-connect-logic-resultτὸ καύχημα ὑμῶν περισσεύῃ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ ἐν ἐμοὶ, διὰ τῆς ἐμῆς παρουσίας πάλιν πρὸς ὑμᾶς1Here, 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]])
92PHP127bwmqfigs-goἐλθὼν1Your 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]])
93PHP127yddqfigs-yousingularἀξίως τοῦ εὐαγγελίου τοῦ Χριστοῦ πολιτεύεσθε1This 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]])
94PHP127u09zfigs-metaphorστήκετε1Here, the phrase **stand firm** is used figuratively to mean not changing ones 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]])
95PHP127kmn8figs-doubletἐν ἑνὶ πνεύματι, μιᾷ ψυχῇ1Here, 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]])
96PHP127ej2sσυναθλοῦντες1striving togetherAlternate translation: “working hard together” or “cooperating together in the work”
97PHP127ya3hτῇ πίστει τοῦ εὐαγγελίου1for the faith of the gospelThe 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.
98PHP128i9ytfigs-yousingularμὴ πτυρόμενοι ἐν μηδενὶ1This 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]])
99PHP128u9anfigs-explicitτῶν ἀντικειμένων1The 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]])
100PHP128l495figs-abstractnounsἥτις ἐστὶν αὐτοῖς ἔνδειξις1If 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]])
101PHP128t225figs-abstractnounsἀπωλείας1If 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]])
102PHP128ypn8figs-abstractnounsσωτηρίας1If 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]])
103PHP128nb4bfigs-extrainfoτοῦτο ἀπὸ Θεοῦ1The 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]])
104PHP129qousfigs-activepassiveὑμῖν ἐχαρίσθη τὸ1The 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 form. Alternate translation: “God has graciously granted” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
105PHP130x4z3figs-abstractnounsτὸν αὐτὸν ἀγῶνα1having the same struggle which you saw in me, and now you hear in meIf 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]])
106PHP130cewffigs-metaphorἀγῶνα1Here, the word **struggle** refers to the conflict between good and evil and speaks of this conflict 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]])
107PHP130hnecfigs-explicitεἴδετε ἐν ἐμοὶ, καὶ νῦν ἀκούετε ἐν ἐμοί1Here, 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]])
108PHP130xkobfigs-ellipsisἐν ἐμοί1Here, 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]])
109PHP2introixw80# 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.”
110PHP21xye5figs-abstractnounsεἴ τις…παράκλησις ἐν Χριστῷ1Connecting 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]])
111PHP21v4nsgrammar-connect-words-phrasesοὖν1The 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]])
112PHP21b1q7εἴ τις…παράκλησις ἐν Χριστῷ1If there is any encouragement in ChristAlternate 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”
113PHP21k1b2εἴ τι παραμύθιον ἀγάπης1if any comfort of loveHere, **love** probably refers to Christs 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”
114PHP21del5figs-ellipsisεἴ τι2In 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]])
115PHP21d63efigs-abstractnounsεἴ τι παραμύθιον ἀγάπης1If 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 Christs love comforts you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
116PHP21m84kεἴ τις κοινωνία Πνεύματος1if any fellowship of the SpiritThe 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”
117PHP21p977figs-ellipsisεἴ τις2In 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]]
118PHP21l2pxfigs-abstractnounsεἴ τις σπλάγχνα καὶ οἰκτιρμοί1if any affections and compassionsIf 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]])
119PHP21a0o6figs-ellipsisεἴ τις3In 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]]
120PHP22j5v2πληρώσατέ μου τὴν χαρὰν1Alternate translation: “make me very happy”
121PHP22jxq2τὸ αὐτὸ φρονῆτε1fulfill my joyAlternate translation: “you think together as one”
122PHP22ve0wτὴν αὐτὴν ἀγάπην ἔχοντες1Alternate translation: “have love for each other” or “love one another”
123PHP22yo7jσύνψυχοι1Alternate translation: “be one in spirit” or “be one in heart and will”
124PHP22b8gzτὸ ἓν φρονοῦντες1Alternate translation: “be concerned about the same things”
125PHP23p0v0μηδὲν κατ’ ἐριθείαν1Alternate 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”
126PHP23y1leμηδὲ κατὰ κενοδοξίαν1Alternate translation: “or with empty pride”
127PHP24ezk6μὴ τὰ ἑαυτῶν ἕκαστος σκοποῦντες, ἀλλὰ καὶ τὰ ἑτέρων ἕκαστοι1each one not considering the things of himself, but also the things of each otherAlternate translation: “each of you caring not only about what you need, but also about what others need”
128PHP24nowdfigs-explicitἕκαστος1The 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]])
129PHP24ob45μὴ…σκοποῦντες1Alternate translation: “not thinking about”
130PHP24l3q0figs-pronounsἑαυτῶν1Here, 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]])
131PHP24qmzlfigs-rpronounsἑαυτῶν1Here, the reflexive pronoun **themselves** refers back to **each one**. Alternate translation: “of yourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
132PHP25pqdcτοῦτο φρονεῖτε ἐν ὑμῖν, ὃ καὶ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1Alternate translation: “Have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had”
133PHP25rh98figs-abstractnounsτοῦτο φρονεῖτε ἐν ὑμῖν, ὃ καὶ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1Have this attitude in you which also was in Christ JesusIf 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]])
134PHP25tdb2figs-yousingularὑμῖν1See 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]])
135PHP25kwoeτοῦτο φρονεῖτε1This 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”
136PHP25acmufigs-explicitὃ καὶ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1Here, the phrase **attitude…in Christ Jesus** means the attitude and disposition which existed in Christ Jesus and therefore characterized his behavior. The phrase **this attitude…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” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
137PHP26hs4qἐν μορφῇ Θεοῦ ὑπάρχων1existing in the form of GodAlternate translation: “though everything that is true of God was true of him”
138PHP26xo2lἐν μορφῇ Θεοῦ ὑπάρχων1The phrase **existing in the form of God** means that Jesus had the very nature of God. It does not mean that Jesus only appeared to be God but was not. This phrase is saying that Jesus was fully God. The rest of this verse, and the next two verses, explain that Jesus, while being fully God, humbled himself and acted as a servant in obedience to God. Avoid any translation that would suggest that Jesus was not fully God. Alternate translation: “being fully God”
139PHP26els2ἁρπαγμὸν1did not consider being equal with God something to be graspedAlternate translation: “something to be held onto” or “something to be retained”
140PHP26kd1lοὐχ…ἡγήσατο1Alternate translation: “did not think” or “did not regard”
141PHP27x5rtgrammar-connect-logic-contrastἀλλὰ1The word **Instead** introduces a contrast between the preceding clause in [2:6](../02/6.md) and what is expressed about Jesus in this verse and the next two verses. The contrast is made between the choice of hanging onto divine rights and privileges or choosing to surrender them. The rest of this verse, as well as the following two verses, explain how Jesus gave up many of his divine rights and privileges to act as a servant. Alternate translation: “On the contrary” or “Rather” of “But” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
142PHP27kvjdwriting-pronounsἀλλὰ ἑαυτὸν ἐκένωσεν1Here, the pronoun **he** refers to Jesus. Alternate translation: “Instead, Jesus emptied himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
143PHP27c64ifigs-rpronounsἑαυτὸν ἐκένωσεν1Here, the reflexive pronoun **himself** refers to Jesus and is used to emphasize the fact that Jesus freely and intentionally chose to empty himself of divine rights and privileges. Consider the best way, in your language, to express the emphatic element of this pronoun. Alternate translation: “he willingly set aside divine privileges” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
144PHP27yu25figs-metaphorἑαυτὸν ἐκένωσεν1he emptied himselfHere, Paul saying that Christ **emptied himself** is figurative and not literal. By using this phrase, Paul is vividly expressing that Christ chose to give up many of his divine rights and privileges when he became human. The phrase **emptied himself** is a figurative way of saying that Jesus chose to give up divine privileges and honors. Paul expresses this in a metaphorical way in order to more vividly make his point. If this would be unclear in your language consider using a similar expression that would be clear in your language or use plain language. Alternate translation: “he gave up divine rights and privileges” or “he willingly set aside divine privileges” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
145PHP27s95dἑαυτὸν ἐκένωσεν, μορφὴν δούλου λαβών1The phrase **having taken the form of a servant** modifies the phrase **he emptied himself** by explaining just how Jesus emptied himself, namely by acting as a servant. Consider the best way, in your language, to show the connection between these two phrases. Alternate translation: “Jesus emptied himself by acting as a servant” or “he emptied himself by becoming a servant”
146PHP27r5dnμορφὴν δούλου λαβών1The phrase **having taken the form of a servant** means that Jesus acted as a servant while on earth. It does not mean that Jesus simply appeared to be a servant.
147PHP27qetlἐν ὁμοιώματι ἀνθρώπων γενόμενος1The phrase **having been born in the likeness of men** means that Jesus became a human being. It does not mean that Jesus only appeared to be human. Rather, it means that Jesus who always existed as God, chose to take on a human body and therefore he appeared on earth in human form. Alternate translation: “having become a human being” or see UST.
148PHP27tc8nfigs-gendernotationsἐν ὁμοιώματι ἀνθρώπων1in the likeness of menHere, the word **men** is emphasizing the idea of Jesus humanity rather than his gender. The word **men** is plural in form to emphasize the idea that Jesus resembled humanity in general. If your language has a way of expressing this emphasis on Jesus humanity, consider the most clear way to express this. Alternate translation: “in the likeness of human beings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
149PHP27uizdκαὶ σχήματι εὑρεθεὶς ὡς ἄνθρωπος1The phrase **having been found in appearance as a man** does not mean that Jesus appeared to be a man but was not. Rather, this phrase continues the thought of the the previous phrase **having been born in the likeness of men** and means that Jesus became a human being and therefore was fully human in appearance. The phrase **in appearance**, points out that Jesus was fully human in appearance but also indicates that while being fully human, Jesus was distinct from the rest of humanity because he retained his full deity while being human; and therefore was both human and divine at the same time. Alternate translation: “and while being found in the form of a human being” or see UST.
150PHP27jmr8figs-gendernotationsἄνθρωπος1Here, the word **man** is emphasizing the idea of Jesus humanity rather than his gender. If your language has a way of expressing this emphasis on Jesus humanity, consider using the term that would most clearly express this. Alternate translation: “a human being” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
151PHP28t8a6ἐταπείνωσεν ἑαυτὸν, γενόμενος ὑπήκοος μέχρι θανάτου1having become obedient to the point of deathThe phrase **having become** could be: (1) introducing the way Jesus **humbled himself**, namely that he humbled himself by becoming **obedient to the point of death**. Alternate translation: “Jesus humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of dying” or “Jesus humbled himself this way, by obeying to the point of death” (2) explaining what the phrase **he humbled himself** refers to. If this is how this phrase is being used then **having become** is clarifying that **he humbled himself** by **death on a cross**. Alternate translation: “he humbled himself, specifically, by being obeying to the point of death”
152PHP28ttysfigs-rpronounsἑαυτὸν1The word **himself** is a reflexive pronoun which refers to Jesus. The reflexive pronoun **himself** is used here to emphasize Jesus action of humbling himself. Consider the best way, in your language, to express the emphatic element of this pronoun. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
153PHP28r5f0figs-abstractnounsγενόμενος ὑπήκοος μέχρι θανάτου1If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **obey** with a verb such as “obeying”. Alternate translation: “having obeyed to the point of death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
154PHP28hi57figs-abstractnounsθανάτου δὲ σταυροῦ1even death on a crossIf it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **death** with a verb such as “dying”. Alternate translation: “even to dying on a cross” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
155PHP28flk2θανάτου δὲ σταυροῦ1The word **even** combined with the repetition of the word **death** emphasize that dying on a cross was considered extremely humiliating. Pauls readers would have been familiar with crucifixion and understood that it was very humiliating. This phrase emphasizes that Jesus death on the cross showed the great extent of his humility and obedience. Think about the best way, in your language, to show the emphatic nature of this phrase. Alternate translation: “even to death on a cross” or “even as so far as dying on a cross” or “even to the extent of dying on a cross”
156PHP29f3ekgrammar-connect-logic-resultδιὸ1The word **Therefore** introduces the result of Jesus humbling himself. How Jesus humbled himself is described in [2:6-8](../2/6-8.md). What follows the word **Therefore** is the result of what Jesus did in [2:6-8](../2/6-8.md). The word **Therefore** shows the reason and result relationship between what comes before this word and what follows it. Choose the best way in your language to express the reason and result relationship expressed by the word **Therefore**. Alternate translation: “Because of this” or “Because Jesus acted this way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
157PHP29wmvdαὐτὸν ὑπερύψωσεν1Alternate translation: “greatly honored him”
158PHP29qsy9καὶ ἐχαρίσατο αὐτῷ τὸ ὄνομα τὸ ὑπὲρ πᾶν ὄνομα1above every nameAlternate translation: “and gave him the position that was higher than any other position”
159PHP29mvb7figs-metonymyτὸ ὄνομα τὸ ὑπὲρ πᾶν ὄνομα1the name that is above every nameHere, **name** is a metonym that refers to status or position. Alternate translation: “the position that is above every other position” or “the rank that is above every other rank” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
160PHP210b3aigrammar-connect-logic-resultἵνα1The phrase **so that** connects this verse with the preceding verse, [2:9](../02/9.md), and shows that this verse and the next verse are the result of [2:9](../02/9.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
161PHP210tk45figs-idiomἐν τῷ ὀνόματι Ἰησοῦ, πᾶν γόνυ κάμψῃ1at the name of Jesus every knee would bendHere, every knee bending is an idiomatic way of saying that Jesus will be worshiped and honored. If this would be clear in your language consider using this expression but if it would not be clear in your language consider using an equivalent expression to communicate the the idea of worship. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
162PHP210xz1ufigs-metonymyἐν τῷ ὀνόματι Ἰησοῦ, πᾶν γόνυ κάμψῃ1at the name of Jesus every knee would bendHere, **at the name of** 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]])
163PHP210ec1aὀνόματι1See how you translated **name** in [2:9](../02/9.md).
164PHP210xn7aἐπουρανίων καὶ ἐπιγείων καὶ καταχθονίων1The phrase **in heaven and on earth and under the earth** literally means “of heavenly things and of earthly things and of things under the earth” or “of heavenly beings and of earthly beings and of beings under the earth”. This phrase refers to all beings, including human beings and angels. This phrase emphasizes that all beings everywhere will bow in reverence to Jesus. Alternate translation: “every being in heaven, and on earth, and under the earth”
165PHP211xy4ffigs-metonymyπᾶσα γλῶσσα ἐξομολογήσηται1every tongueHere, Paul uses the word **tongue** figuratively to represent the mouth and what comes out of the mouth. Paul is figuratively describing what is said by associating it with the the tongue. If this is not clear in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “every mouth will declare” or “every being will say” or “everyone will say” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
166PHP211mr2igrammar-connect-logic-goalεἰς δόξαν Θεοῦ Πατρὸς1to the glory of God the FatherHere, the word **to** expresses result. Alternate translation: “with the result that God the Father will be honored” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
167PHP212jnp3grammar-connect-words-phrasesὥστε0Connecting Statement:The phrase **So then** shows that [2:5-11](../2/5-11.md) is logically connected to [2:12-18](../2/12-18.md). The phrase **So then** introduces this section [2:12-18](../2/12-18.md) in which Paul gives practical directions regarding how the Philippian Christians should apply what Paul wrote about in [2:5-11](../2/5-11.md). The phrase **So then** shows that what follows it is the desired result of what precedes it in [2:5-11](../2/5-11.md). Consider the best word or phrase, in your language, to express the meaning of this phrase. Alternate translation: “Therefore” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
168PHP212e359ἀγαπητοί μου1my belovedHere, the word **beloved** refers to the Christians in Philippi. Paul uses this word to express how much he loves the Christians in Philippi. Consider the using an equivalent phrase in your language that would express love and affection. Alternate translation: “my dear fellow believers”
169PHP212c1ixὡς ἐν τῇ παρουσίᾳ μου1in my presence“when I am there with you”
170PHP212u5ngἐν τῇ ἀπουσίᾳ μου1in my absence“when I am not there with you”
171PHP212j897figs-abstractnounsμετὰ φόβου καὶ τρόμου τὴν ἑαυτῶν σωτηρίαν κατεργάζεσθε1work out your own salvation with fear and tremblingThe abstract noun **salvation** can be expressed with a phrase about God saving people. If using the abstract noun **salvation** would not make sense in your language consider another way to express this idea such as using a verbal form, an adverb, or an adjective to describe Gods saving work. 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 to do good things as those whom God has saved” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
172PHP212cm1sfigs-doubletμετὰ φόβου καὶ τρόμου1with fear and tremblingPaul uses the words **fear** and **trembling** together to show the attitude of reverence that people should have for God. Consider the best way to express this idea in your language. These words have very similar meanings so you may express them as one idea or translate them as two separate expressions. Consider what would be most clear in your language. Alternate translation: “with awe and reverence for God” or “with deep reverence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
173PHP213fc9lἐνεργῶν1In the original language Paul wrote this letter in, the word **working** expresses continuous action and highlights the ongoing nature of Gods work in believers. Consider the best way to express the continuous nature of this word in your language. Alternate translation: “continually working”
174PHP213wgc1figs-yousingularΘεὸς γάρ ἐστιν ὁ ἐνεργῶν ἐν ὑμῖν1The word **you** is plural and refers to the Philippian believers. 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). Alternate translation: “For God is working in the hearts of each of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
175PHP213qy5xfigs-extrainfoἐν ὑμῖν1The phrase **in you** could refer to: (1) God working individually within the heart of each of the Philippian believers. See UST. (2) God working among the Philippian believers as a whole. Alternate translation: “among you” (3) both option one and two simultaneously. Alternate translation: “in and among you”. If your language allows you to keep the object of Gods work ambiguous, as it is in the ULT, this is the preferable option. If your language does not allow for this, choose one of the options above. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]])
176PHP213m6b8καὶ τὸ θέλειν, καὶ τὸ ἐνεργεῖν, ὑπὲρ τῆς εὐδοκίας1both to will and to work for his good pleasureAlternate translation: “to enable you to both desire to do, and to do, the things which him happy” or “so that you will want to do what pleases him, and will be able to do what pleases him”
177PHP214gy6pπάντα ποιεῖτε χωρὶς γογγυσμῶν καὶ διαλογισμῶν1The phrase **Do all things without** is a command to all of the Philippian Christians and is in the plural form in the original language that Paul wrote this letter in. If your language has a plural command form, use it here. Alternate translation: “Every one of you, make sure that you do not complain or argue in anything you do”
178PHP215z2lzfigs-doubletἄμεμπτοι καὶ ἀκέραιοι1blameless and pureThe words **blameless** and **pure** are very similar in meaning and are used together to emphasize the idea of living a morally pure life. You may translate these words individually, as the ULT does, or combine them together into one idea and express their meaning together as a single expression. Consider what would be most clear in your language. Alternate translation: “completely innocent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
179PHP215sp0gτέκνα Θεοῦ1The phrase **children of God** refers to Christians. This phrase does not refer to biological children. Consider the best way to express this idea in your language. Alternate translation: “Gods spiritual children” or “spiritual children of God”
180PHP215nalyfigs-abstractnounsἄμωμα1If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **blemish** with an adjective such as “faultless” or “unstained” or by using a verbal phrase that would express the idea of not doing or participating in evil. Alternate translation: “faultless” or “unstained” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
181PHP215im15ἄμωμα1The phrase **without blemish** means to be free from flaws or defects. Here, the phrase **without blemish** specifically means to be free from moral flaws or corruption. Consider using an equivalent phrase from your language that would make sense in this context or use plain language. Alternate translation: “who abstain from all evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
182PHP215jb7yfigs-doubletμέσον γενεᾶς σκολιᾶς καὶ διεστραμμένης1in the world, in the midst of a crooked and depraved generationThe words **crooked** and **depraved** are used together to emphasize the idea of extreme sinfulness. These two words are very similar in meaning. You may translate these words individually, as the ULT does, or combine them together into one idea and express their meaning together as a single expression. Consider what would be most clear in your language. Alternate translation: “among people who are very sinful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
183PHP215f957figs-explicitἐν οἷς φαίνεσθε ὡς φωστῆρες ἐν κόσμῳ1Here, the word **world** refers to the people living in the world. If this would be unclear in your language, consider stating this using an equivalent expression from your language or use plain language. Alternate translation: “among whom you shine as lights before the people of the world, in the midst of an evil generation” or “among whom you shine as lights, as you live in the midst of the crooked and perverse people of this world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
184PHP215p71ufigs-metaphorφαίνεσθε ὡς φωστῆρες ἐν κόσμῳ1you shine as lights in the worldHere, the word light represents truth and living in a righteous way that points to what is true and good. Light, is often used metaphorically in the Bible to represent truth and righteous living that aligns with truth. In the Bible, light is often contrasted with darkness, which represents falsehood and living according to it. To **shine as lights in the world** means to live in a way that helps people see Gods truth and character. If this would not be clear in your language, consider using an equivalent expression from your language that would clearly express the idea behind this phrase. Alternate translation: “you will be examples of Gods goodness and truth in the world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
185PHP216u3qbλόγον ζωῆς ἐπέχοντες1holding forth the word of lifeHere, **holding forth** could mean: (1) holding out to others the word of life. Alternate translation: “holding out the word of life” or “offering the word of life” (2) holding firmly to the word of life. Alternate translation: “holding tightly to the word of life” or “holding firmly to the word of life”
186PHP216cherλόγον ζωῆς ἐπέχοντες1The phrase **holding forth the word of life** continues the thought from the previous verse and shows in more detail how Christians can become **blameless and pure, children of God** who **shine as lights in the world**. Consider the best way to show this connection in your language. Alternate translation: “as you hold forth the word of life”
187PHP216eq86figs-explicitλόγον ζωῆς1the word of lifeThe phrase **word of life** refers to the the good news about Jesus. If this would be unclear in your language consider translating this phrase in plain language. Alternate translation: “the message that gives life” or “the life giving gospel” or “the life giving message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
188PHP216nmixfigs-metonymyλόγον1Here, the phrase **the word** means “the gospel”. In his writings, Paul often uses **word** to refer to the message of the gospel. In doing this Paul is figuratively describing something Christians communicate to others by associating it with words. If this is not clear in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “the message” or “the gospel” or “the good news”. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
189PHP216i448figs-explicitλόγον ζωῆς1The phrase **the word of life** could mean: (1) the word that gives people life. Alternate translation: “the word that gives life” (2) the word that is about and gives life. Alternate translation: “the word that is about and gives life” (3) the word which contains life and has the ability to give people life. Alternate translation: “the word that contains and gives life”. If your language allows you to keep the phrase **the word of life** ambiguous this is the best option. If your language does not allow you to do this you may specify clearly how the phrase **of life** is related to **the word**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
190PHP216fz1dfigs-activepassiveλόγον ζωῆς1If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the abstract noun **life** by using it in a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “the life giving word” or “the word which gives life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
191PHP216s3z9grammar-connect-logic-resultεἰς καύχημα ἐμοὶ εἰς ἡμέραν Χριστοῦ, ὅτι οὐκ εἰς κενὸν ἔδραμον, οὐδὲ εἰς κενὸν ἐκοπίασα1With the phrase **for my boasting on the day of Christ** Paul introduces a reason that the Philippian believers should try to live out the things he has just told them to do in [2:12](../02/12.md) and ending with the phrase **holding forth the word of life**. Paul here gives one reason for what he has just asked them to do. He says that if they live out what he has just told them, then when Christ returns he he will be able to be proud of the fact that he did not work in vain among them. Consider the best way in your language to show this reason result relationship. Alternate translation: “so that I will be able to boast on the day Christ returns that I did not run in vain or labor in vain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
192PHP216esvdfigs-explicitεἰς καύχημα ἐμοὶ1Here, **boasting** refers to Paul being rightfully proud of Gods work in the lives of the Philippian believers. If it would be clearer in your language consider stating this explicitly. Alternate translation: “so that I may be rightfully proud of Gods work in you” or “so that I might glory in Gods work in you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
193PHP216heo4εἰς καύχημα ἐμοὶ1Alternate translation: “so that I may boast” or “in order that I have good reason to glory”
194PHP216q7y8figs-explicitεἰς ἡμέραν Χριστοῦ,1on the day of ChristThe phrase **the day of Christ** refers to the time in the future when Christ will return. If it would be clearer in your language you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “when Christ returns” or “at the time Christ returns” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
195PHP216m5aqfigs-parallelismοὐκ εἰς κενὸν ἔδραμον, οὐδὲ εἰς κενὸν ἐκοπίασα1I did not run in vain nor labor in vainThe phrases **run in vain** and **labor in vain** have very similar meanings here. Paul uses these two phrases together to emphasize how hard he has worked to help people believe in Christ and mature in their obedience and love for him. You may translate theses two phrases separately, as the ULT does, or if it would be clearer in your language you may translate them together as a single phrase. Alternate translation: “I did not work so hard for nothing” or “I did not work hard with no lasting results” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
196PHP216m1z7figs-metaphorοὐκ εἰς κενὸν ἔδραμον1I did … runHere, Paul uses the word **run** metaphorically to mean “work”. Here, Paul specifically means “work for the advancement of the gospel” among the Philippians. Paul uses the word **run** to bring to the Philippians mind the image of a runner who is running in a race toward a finish line in order to win a prize. If this is familiar to people in your culture consider using this metaphor but if this image is not familiar to your readers consider stating this idea in plain language. Alternate translation: “I did not work for the advancement of the gospel uselessly” or “I did not work for the spread of the good news for nothing” or “I did not run the race uselessly”( See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
197PHP216wyygfigs-activepassiveεἰς κενὸν…εἰς κενὸν2If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the abstract noun **vain** using an adjectival phrase. Alternate translation: “uselessly” or “with no results” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
198PHP216btgufigs-explicitοὐδὲ εἰς κενὸν ἐκοπίασα1Here, Paul uses the word **labor** to refer to his spiritual work of sharing the gospel with the Philippian believers and working to help them grow in spiritual maturity. Paul assumes that his readers will know that he is referring to his spiritual work among them. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “or work hard in trying to help you believe in Christ and obey him for nothing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
199PHP216xwyyfigs-explicitεἰς κενὸν ἐκοπίασα1Alternate translation: “work hard for nothing” or “work hard and see no results”
200PHP217p9km grammar-connect-words-phrasesἀλλ’ εἰ καὶ1**But even if** connects the idea of running and laboring for the advance of the gospel, which Paul discussed in [2:16](../02/16.md), with what he says in the rest of this verse. Consider how to translate this phrase in your language in a way that shows this connection. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
201PHP217j2ovtranslate-symactionσπένδομαι ἐπὶ τῇ θυσίᾳ καὶ λειτουργίᾳ τῆς πίστεως ὑμῶν1The phrase **I am being poured out as an offering on the sacrifice** uses imagery from the Old Testament Jewish sacrificial system. A priest would sacrifice an animal on the altar as a burnt offering to God and then pour out wine as a drink offering to God. The priest poured wine on the sacrifice in order to make the sacrifice complete. See [Num 28:7](num 28:7). If there is a gesture with similar meaning in your culture, consider using it here, but if this imagery would be confusing in your culture consider translating this imagery using plain language. Alternate translation: “I work and give my life for your sake in order to complete the sacrificial service of your faith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
202PHP217xlv0figs-metaphorσπένδομαι 1Paul uses the phrase **I am being poured out as an offering** to figuratively depict his imprisonment and suffering to advance the gospel. Paul probably is also thinking of the fact that he could potentially be killed in the future for preaching the gospel. If this metaphor would not be clear in your language consider using plain language to express this idea. Alternate translation: See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
203PHP217ji4wfigs-abstractnounsσπένδομαι1If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the abstract noun **offering** by using a verbal form. Alternate translation: See UST. (See: (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
204PHP217thi0figs-activepassiveἐπὶ τῇ θυσίᾳ καὶ λειτουργίᾳ τῆς πίστεως ὑμῶν1If it would be clearer in your language, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “on your sacrifice and service which you offer because you believe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
205PHP217ip8ifigs-hendiadys ἐπὶ τῇ θυσίᾳ καὶ λειτουργίᾳ τῆς πίστεως ὑμῶν1The words **sacrifice** and **service** express a single idea by using two words connected by **and** which are governed by the word **the** in the original language Paul wrote this letter. If it would be clearer in your language, you could express this meaning as a single idea or phrase. Alternate translation: “to complete your sacrificial service which you offer because you believe the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
206PHP217otjnχαίρω καὶ συνχαίρω πᾶσιν ὑμῖν1Alternate translation: “I gladly rejoice and I rejoice with you all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
207PHP217s1j9χαίρω καὶ συνχαίρω πᾶσιν ὑμῖν1The phrase **I rejoice and rejoice with you all** is Pauls summary of his attitude toward his hard work and suffering on behalf of the Philippians which he described in [2:16](../2/16.md) and in this verse.
208PHP218bicjfigs-explicitτὸ…αὐτὸ1The phrase **in the same manner** refers to the Philippian Christians rejoicing in the same manner that Paul said he would rejoice in previous verse [2:17](../02/17.md). If this would be unclear in your language consider stating this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in the same way that I rejoice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
209PHP218dr9cκαὶ ὑμεῖς χαίρετε καὶ συνχαίρετέ μοι1Connecting Statement:The phrases **you also rejoice** and **rejoice with me** are both commands given to the Philippian Christians in the plural form. If your language has a plural command form that would be appropriate to use in this context, consider using it in your translation of these two phrases. Alternate translation: “I urge each of you to rejoice and also to rejoice with me”
210PHP219gml9figs-abstractnounsἐλπίζω δὲ ἐν Κυρίῳ Ἰησοῦ1Now I hope in the Lord JesusIf it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **hope** with a verb form such as “hoping”. Alternate translation: See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
211PHP219pq9gtranslate-namesΤιμόθεον1Timothy is the name of a man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
212PHP219uvzhfigs-ellipsisκἀγὼ εὐψυχῶ1Here, the word **also** indicates that there is an ellipsis in the words that follow it. The word **also** expresses and implies that if Paul was able to send Timothy to the Philippian Christians, that they would be encouraged by news of Paul also. If this would be unclear in your language consider stating this explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, as well as you, might be encouraged” or see UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
213PHP220d9mwοὐδένα γὰρ ἔχω ἰσόψυχον1For I have no one like-mindedAlternate translation: “For I have no one else who loves you like I do, except Timothy”
214PHP221b922figs-explicitοἱ πάντες γὰρ τὰ ἑαυτῶν ζητοῦσιν, οὐ τὰ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1For they allHere, the words **they** and **their** refer to a group of people Paul does not feel he can trust to send to Philippi. If this would be unclear in your language consider stating that explicitly. Alternate translation: “All the other people I might send to you seek what they want and not the things Jesus Christ wants” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
215PHP221yclefigs-abstractnounsτὰ ἑαυτῶν ζητοῦσιν, οὐ τὰ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1Alternate translation: “what they care about and not what Jesus Christ cares about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
216PHP222gm8ifigs-simileὡς πατρὶ τέκνον1as a child with his father, he served with meSons try to follow and imitate their fathers and often want to work alongside their fathers as they work. Paul was not Timothys biological father but uses this simile to illustrate how Timothy worked alongside him as a spiritual son so that together they advanced the gospel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
217PHP222clvwfigs-abstractnounsτὴν δὲ δοκιμὴν αὐτοῦ γινώσκετε1If it would be clearer in your language you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **worth** with an adjective such as “valuable.” Alternate translation: “But you know how valuable Timothy is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
218PHP222xdn5figs-metonymyεἰς τὸ εὐαγγέλιον1in the gospelHere, **the gospel** means the work of advancing the gospel. If this would be unclear in your language consider stating this explicitly. Alternate translation: “in gospel work” or “in working to advance the gospel” or “in the work of the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
219PHP224yn62πέποιθα…ἐν Κυρίῳ, ὅτι καὶ αὐτὸς ταχέως ἐλεύσομαι1I am confident in the Lord that I myself will also come soonAlternate translation: “I am sure, if it is the Lords will, that I will also come soon”
220PHP224l7mvπέποιθα1The phrase **I trust** expresses a stronger idea of confidence than the phrase **I hope** in verse 23. Make sure that your translation reflects this.
221PHP224qqpofigs-explicitὅτι καὶ αὐτὸς ταχέως ἐλεύσομαι.1Here, the word **also** expresses that Paul was confident that he would be able to visit the Philippian Christians, in addition to sending Timothy to them. If this would be unclear in your language consider stating this explicitly. Alternate translation: “that I myself, in addition to Timothy, will also come soon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
222PHP224wbpcfigs-goὅτι καὶ αὐτὸς ταχέως ἐλεύσομαι1Your language may say “go” instead of **come** in contexts such as this. Alternate translation: “that I myself will also go soon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])
223PHP225k4wztranslate-namesἘπαφρόδιτον1EpaphroditusThis 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]])
224PHP225csw5figs-metaphorἀδελφὸν…μου1Here, the phrase **my brother** does not mean that Epaphroditus was Pauls biological brother. Rather, Paul calls Epaphroditus his **brother** because they were both members of Gods spiritual family through their faith in Jesus Christ. If this would be unclear in your language consider stating this explicitly. Alternate translation: “my spiritual brother” or “my brother in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
225PHP225c3cefigs-metaphorσυνστρατιώτην1fellow worker and fellow soldierHere, the phrase **fellow soldier** does not mean that Epaphroditus and Paul were actual soldiers in a military. What Paul means is that he and Epaphroditus were spiritual soldiers fighting together for God in the spiritual battle against Satan and evil. If this would be unclear in your language you could express this explicitly or modify the phrase **fellow soldier** to further explain what Paul means here. Alternate translation: “fellow believer who works and struggles along with us” or “fellow soldier of God” or “fellow warrior of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
226PHP225qsd6ὑμῶν…ἀπόστολον καὶ λειτουργὸν τῆς χρείας μου1your messenger and minister for my needsAlternate translation: “who brings your messages to me and helps me in my need”
227PHP226gxn9ἐπιποθῶν ἦν πάντας ὑμᾶς, καὶ ἀδημονῶν1he is longing to be with you all and he is distressedAlternate translation: “he has wanted to be with you all and is deeply concerned”
228PHP226wdvhἐπειδὴ ἐπιποθῶν ἦν πάντας ὑμᾶς, καὶ ἀδημονῶν διότι ἠκούσατε ὅτι ἠσθένησεν1In this verse all three uses of the pronoun **he** refer to Epaphroditus. If this would be unclear in your language consider clarifying this in your translation. Alternate translation: “seeing that Epaphroditus has been longing to be with you all and is distressed because you heard that he was sick” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
229PHP227d3ouκαὶ γὰρ ἠσθένησεν παραπλήσιον θανάτῳ, ἀλλὰ ὁ Θεὸς ἠλέησεν αὐτόν, οὐκ αὐτὸν δὲ μόνον, ἀλλὰ καὶ ἐμέ, ἵνα μὴ λύπην ἐπὶ λύπην σχῶ1Here, the pronoun **he** refers to Epaphroditus as well as both uses of the pronoun **him**. If this would be unclear in your language consider clarifying this in your translation. Alternate translation: “For indeed Epaphroditus was sick nearly to death. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only, but also on me, so that I might not have sorrow upon sorrow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
230PHP227rl0mfigs-abstractnounsἠσθένησεν παραπλήσιον θανάτῳ1If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **death** with an adjective such as “dying”. Alternate translation: “he was sick nearly to the point of dying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
231PHP227n0zdfigs-abstractnounsἀλλὰ ὁ Θεὸς ἠλέησεν1If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **mercy** with an adjective such as “merciful”. Alternate translation: “but God was merciful to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
232PHP227ioqqfigs-explicitλύπην ἐπὶ λύπην1If the expression **sorrow upon sorrow** would be unclear in your language consider using an equivalent expression from your language or state the meaning of this phrase explicitly. Alternate translation: “sorrow added to sorrow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
233PHP227dzgzλύπην ἐπὶ λύπην1The expression **sorrow upon sorrow** could mean: (1) adding the sorrow of Epaphroditus death to the sorrow of Epaphroditus sickness. Alternate translation: “the sorrow of Epaphroditus death added to the sorrow of his sickness” (2) adding the sorrow of Epaphroditus death to the sorrow of Pauls imprisonment. Alternate translation: “the sorrow of Epaphroditus death added to the sorrow of my imprisonment”
234PHP228kt1dwriting-pronounsσπουδαιοτέρως οὖν ἔπεμψα αὐτὸν, ἵνα ἰδόντες αὐτὸν πάλιν, χαρῆτε κἀγὼ ἀλυπότερος ὦ1Here, both occurrences of the pronoun **him** refer to Epaphroditus. If this would be unclear in your language consider clarifying this in your translation. Alternate translation: “Therefore, I sent Epaphroditus all the more eagerly, so that, having seen him again, you might rejoice, and I might be free from pain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
235PHP228y5gcκἀγὼ ἀλυπότερος ὦ1and I might be free from painAlternate translation: “and I might be less anxious” or “and I might be less concerned about you”
236PHP229y95xfigs-yousingularπροσδέχεσθε οὖν αὐτὸν1Therefore welcome himThe word **welcome** is a command given to the Philippian Christians in the plural form. In the original language that Paul wrote this letter in the word **welcome** could be translated as “you welcome”. If your language has a plural command form that would be appropriate to use in this context, consider using it in your translation of this word. Alternate translation: “I exhort each of you to welcome” or “each of you welcome” or “all of you welcome” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
237PHP229qx14figs-abstractnounsἐν Κυρίῳ μετὰ πάσης χαρᾶς1in the Lord with all joyIf it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **joy** with an adverb such as “joyfully” as the UST does or you can use a verbal form of this word such as “rejoicing”. Alternate translation: “Therefore, welcome him in the Lord with rejoicing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
238PHP229l59wἐντίμους ἔχετε1The phrase **hold in honor** is a command given to the Philippian Christians in the plural form. In the original language that Paul wrote this letter in the phrase **hold in honor** could be translated as “you hold in honor”. If your language has a plural command form that would be appropriate to use in this context, consider using it in your translation of this phrase. Alternate translation: “I exhort each of you to hold in honor” or “each of you honor” or “all of you honor”
239PHP230ns1ywriting-pronounsὅτι διὰ τὸ ἔργον Χριστοῦ μέχρι θανάτου ἤγγισεν, παραβολευσάμενος τῇ ψυχῇ, ἵνα ἀναπληρώσῃ τὸ ὑμῶν ὑστέρημα, τῆς πρός με λειτουργίας1he came near even to deathHere, the pronouns **he** and **him** refer to Epaphroditus. If this would be unclear in your language consider clarifying this in your translation. Alternate translation: “since for the sake of the work of Christ, Epaphroditus came near even to death, risking his life so that he might make up your lack of service to me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
240PHP230g98zἵνα ἀναπληρώσῃ τὸ ὑμῶν ὑστέρημα, τῆς πρός με λειτουργίας1he might make up your lack of service to meThe **lack of service** Paul speaks of here is the inability of the Philippian believers to be present with him in prison. By sending Epaphroditus to Paul, the Philippian believers ministered to his needs through Epaphroditus and so Epaphroditus supplied what they could not. Alternate translation: “so that he might supply what you could not give me” or “so that he might make up for what you could not give”
241PHP3introbtx30# 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.
242PHP31zu9lfigs-gendernotationsἀδελφοί1brothersAlthough 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. See how you translated this word in [Philippians 1:12](../01/12.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
243PHP31ymm2figs-yousingularχαίρετε ἐν Κυρίῳ1rejoice in the LordThe word **rejoice** is a command given to the Philippian Christians in the plural form. In the original language that Paul wrote this letter in, the word **rejoice** could be translated as “you rejoice”. If your language has a plural command form that would be appropriate to use in this context, consider using it in your translation of this word. Alternate translation: “I exhort each of you to rejoice in the Lord” or “each of you rejoice in the Lord” or “all of you rejoice in the Lord” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular)
244PHP31qb78figs-explicitὑμῖν δὲ ἀσφαλές1and is a safeguard for youIf it would be helpful in your language 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 false” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
245PHP32ttwsβλέπετε1All three times that the phrase **Beware of** occurs in this verse it is a command given to the Philippian Christians in the plural form. If your language has a plural command form that would be appropriate to use in this context, consider using it in your translation of this phrase. Alternate translation: “I exhort each of you to beware of” or “Each of you beware of”
246PHP32ny6yβλέπετε1BewareAlternate translation: “Watch out for” or “Look out for” or “Be on guard against”
247PHP32zin8τοὺς κύνας…τοὺς κακοὺς ἐργάτας…τὴν κατατομήν1the dogs … the evil workers … the mutilationThe phrases **the dogs**, **the evil workers**, and **the mutilation** are three different ways of describing the same group of Jewish teachers who were corrupting the gospel. Paul uses strong expressions to convey his feeling about these Jewish teachers.
248PHP32yeaxtranslate-unknownτοὺς κύνας1the dogsPaul speaks of the Jewish teachers who were corrupting the gospel as though they were **dogs** in order to show strong contempt for them. A dog is an animal that is common in many parts of the world. Dogs are despised in some cultures but not despised in other cultures so using the term **dogs** in some cultures may not have the derogatory meaning that Paul intended. If you have a different animal in your culture that is despised or whose name is used as an insult, you could use this animal instead if it would fit well in this context. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
249PHP32i40zβλέπετε2See how you translated the phrase **beware of** earlier in this verse.
250PHP32n44aκακοὺς ἐργάτας1Here, the phrase **evil workers** refers to Jewish teachers who were teaching things that were contrary to the gospel.
251PHP32h2aiβλέπετε3See how you translated the phrase **beware of** earlier in this verse.
252PHP32vc2utranslate-unknownτὴν κατατομήν1The word **mutilation** is a sarcastic way of referring to circumcision and **the mutilation** is a sarcastic way of referring to those who taught that circumcision was necessary in order to be in right standing with God. At the time Paul wrote this letter it was a common practice for those who practiced false religions to cut themselves in order to try to earn favor from their god. By using the term **mutilation**, Paul is showing the Philippian believers that those who trust in circumcision, and not solely in Christ, are like pagan false worshipers who mistakenly think that they can earn Gods favor by cutting their bodies. Consider the term that would best communicate this idea in your language. Alternate translation: “those who cut themselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
253PHP32x8r2figs-metonymyτὴν κατατομήν1the mutilationHere, **the mutilation** refers to the Jewish teachers who were all circumcised and were corrupting the gospel by teaching that it was necessary to be circumcised. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
254PHP33y8ytfigs-exclusiveἡμεῖς γάρ ἐσμεν1For we areHere, 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]])
255PHP33xt5rἡ περιτομή1the circumcisionHere, the term **the circumcision** is used metonymously to refer to all true Christians. Here, Paul is using this term in contrast to its normal usage in the Bible. Normally the term **the circumcision** was used to refer to Jewish males since all Jewish males were circumcised at this time. Here, Paul intentionally uses this term in a way that would have been surprising to his readers. Here, Paul uses this term with a spiritual sense to refer to all Christians, both Jews and non-Jews. Paul uses the term **the circumcision** here, to refer to the inward, spiritual circumcision that the Holy Spirit performs in the hearts of all true Christians. Paul discusses this spiritual circumcision in [Romans 11:2124](../11/21-24.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
256PHP33wn2n οἱ Πνεύματι Θεοῦ λατρεύοντες1Alternate translation: “the ones who are empowered by Gods Spirit to worship him” or “the ones who are enabled to worship God by his Spirit” or “the ones who worship God through his Spirit”
257PHP33k8phfigs-ellipsisοὐκ ἐν σαρκὶ πεποιθότες1having no confidence in the fleshHere, the phrase **confidence in the flesh** is leaving out some implied words that would need to be supplied in some languages in order to make this idea complete. Paul is leaving out the words “works of the” in this phrase and means **having no confidence in the works of the flesh**. If it would be clearer in your language, you could supply these words which are implied from the context. Alternate translation: “having no confidence in the works of the flesh” or “not trusting that circumcision will please God” “not trusting that circumcision will earn Gods favor” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
258PHP33nkrsκαυχώμενοι ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ, καὶ οὐκ ἐν σαρκὶ πεποιθότες1The phrase **boasting in Christ Jesus** and the phrase **and having no confidence in the flesh** are complementary ideas which express a similar truth. If a person truly places their confidence in Christ as their only means of earning Gods favor they will not put their confidence in themself or religious acts and conversely if a person puts their confidence in religious rituals and observances they cannot place their full confidence in Christ. Consider the best way to clearly express the coordinate ideas in your language. See UST.
259PHP34upw5figs-hypoἐγὼ ἔχων πεποίθησιν καὶ ἐν σαρκί. εἴ τις δοκεῖ ἄλλος πεποιθέναι ἐν σαρκί, ἐγὼ μᾶλλον1I myself, having confidence even in the flesh. If anyone else seems to have confidence in the flesh, I even moreBeginning with the phrase **if anyone**, Paul explains why, if anyone has a reason to be confident in religious works, he does. Beginning with this phrase, and continuing through the end of [3:6](../03/6.md), Paul gives his religious credentials and accomplishments in order to make the point that if earning Gods favor should be sought by observing the law then he had reason to boast more than anyone because. However, this is a hypothetical situation and Paul does not think that the Philippian believers should trust in keeping the law but rather in Christ. Paul is using a hypothetical situation to teach the Philippian believers what they should hope. Paul goes on to explain in [3:711](../3/7-11.md) that his hope is in Christ and not in the law. Alternate translation: See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
260PHP35d5bq περιτομῇ ὀκταήμερος ἐκ γένους Ἰσραήλ φυλῆς Βενιαμείν, Ἑβραῖος ἐξ Ἑβραίων, κατὰ νόμον Φαρισαῖος1In this verse and the next verse, Paul lists a total of seven things that he put his confidence in before he believed in Christ. In this verse he lists five of those things and in the next verse he lists the remaining two.
261PHP35yq98figs-explicitφυλῆς Βενιαμείν1circumcisionThe phrase **of the tribe of Benjamin** means that Paul was from the Israelite tribe of Benjamin and therefore descended from Jacobs son Benjamin. Consider the best way to say this in your language. Alternate translation: See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
262PHP35p4ikfigs-extrainfoἙβραῖος ἐξ Ἑβραίων1a Hebrew of HebrewsThe phrase **a Hebrew of Hebrews** could mean: (1) that Paul had retained Hebrew customs and spoke the language of the Hebrew people which was Aramaic. Alternate translation: See UST. (2) that Paul had no Gentile ancestors but rather was a pure-blooded Hebrew. Alternate translation: “a Hebrew whose parents and ancestors are all full-blooded Jews” (3) a combination of both of the above. Alternate translation: “a full-blooded Jew who has retained the Hebrew culture, customs, and language” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]])
263PHP35we4tfigs-extrainfoκατὰ νόμον Φαρισαῖος1according to the law, a PhariseeThe phrase **according to the law, a Pharisee** means that prior to his conversion Paul had been a Pharisee who related to the law of Moses as a Pharisee and therefore strictly obeyed it as well as all of the additional rules that the scribes had added to the law of Moses to try to safeguard it. Alternate translation: “in relation to the law of Moses I was a Pharisee” or “in relation to how I observed the law of Moses, I was a Pharisee and therefore I strictly obeyed every detail of it including the teachings of the scribes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]])
264PHP36f81sκατὰ ζῆλος διώκων τὴν ἐκκλησίαν, κατὰ δικαιοσύνην τὴν ἐν νόμῳ γενόμενος ἄμεμπτος1In this verse Paul finishes naming the things that he put his confidence in before he believed in Christ.
265PHP36ksr3κατὰ ζῆλος διώκων τὴν ἐκκλησίαν1according to zeal, persecuting the churchPauls 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”
266PHP36n51bgrammar-collectivenounsτὴν ἐκκλησίαν1persecuting the churchHere, **church** is a collective noun and the phrase **the church** refers to Christians as a whole and includes anyone belonging to the group of people who follow Jesus. What Paul means by saying that he persecuted the church is that he formerly persecuted anyone who was a Christian. Alternate translation: “persecuting Christians” or “persecuting anyone who was a Christian” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])
267PHP36hln8figs-explicitκατὰ δικαιοσύνην τὴν ἐν νόμῳ γενόμενος ἄμεμπτος1according to righteousness that is under the law, having become blamelessThe phrase **righteousness that is in the law** refers to obeying the righteous guidelines for living that the law of Moses required. Paul obeyed the law so carefully that he believed that no one could find any part of it that he disobeyed. Alternate Translation: “As regards obeying the law, no one could say that I ever disobeyed the law” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
268PHP37i2tdἅτινα ἦν μοι κέρδη, ταῦτα ἥγημαι διὰ τὸν Χριστὸν ζημίαν1This entire verse is Pauls response to the seven things he listed in [3:56](../3/5-6.md) that he once considered to be spiritually and religiously profitable to himself. In this verse Paul contrasts his former way of viewing things as a Pharisee with his new way of viewing things in light of Christ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
269PHP37lb8ffigs-metaphorἅτινα ἦν μοι κέρδη, ταῦτα ἥγημαι διὰ τὸν Χριστὸν ζημίαν1a profit … lossIn the original language that Paul wrote this letter in, the words **gains** and **loss** were common business terms used for accounting. These terms were used to describe things a business person determined to be either profitable or unprofitable. Here, Paul is using these two terms metaphorically to portray the things he considers spiritually profitable and unprofitable. If your language has similar business or accounting terms that would be natural to use in this context, consider using them here. Alternate translation: “Whatever things I formerly counted as gains, these things I now count as loss for the sake of Christ” or “Whatever things I formerly accounted as gains, these things I now account as loss for the sake of Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
270PHP37n4lgfigs-explicitἅτινα ἦν μοι κέρδη1Whatever was a profit for meHere, the phrase **Whatever was profit to me** refers specifically to the list of seven things that Paul has just listed in [3:56](../3/5-6.md) and to anything else he would have formerly put confidence in before he believed in Christ. Alternate translation: “Whatever things I formerly considered profitable” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
271PHP37yxtxfigs-abstractnounsταῦτα ἥγημαι διὰ τὸν Χριστὸν ζημίαν1If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **loss** by expressing the idea of loss in a verbal phrase such as “worth losing”. Alternate translation: “I consider these things worth losing for the sake of Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
272PHP38e1fpfigs-metaphorἀλλὰ μενοῦνγε καὶ ἡγοῦμαι πάντα ζημίαν εἶναι, διὰ τὸ ὑπερέχον τῆς γνώσεως Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ τοῦ Κυρίου μου, δι’ ὃν τὰ πάντα ἐζημιώθην καὶ ἡγοῦμαι σκύβαλα, ἵνα Χριστὸν κερδήσω1I consider even all things to be lossIn this verse, Paul continues the business metaphor which he began in [3:7](../03/07.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
273PHP38eptsfigs-metaphorἡγοῦμαι1See how you translated the word **consider** in [3:7](../03/07.md).
274PHP38wugjζημίαν1See how you translated the word **loss** in [3:7](../03/07.md).
275PHP38iji5figs-abstractnounsκαὶ ἡγοῦμαι πάντα ζημίαν εἶναι, διὰ τὸ ὑπερέχον τῆς γνώσεως Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ τοῦ Κυρίου μου1If it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **value** with an adjective such as “valuable”.  Alternate translation: “I consider everything worth losing for the sake of what is most valuable, namely, knowing Christ Jesus my Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
276PHP38cv55διὰ τὸ ὑπερέχον τῆς γνώσεως Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ τοῦ Κυρίου μου1because of the surpassing value of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my LordAlternate translation: “because knowing Christ Jesus my Lord is worth so much more”
277PHP38g1hyγνώσεως Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ τοῦ Κυρίου μου1Here, the word **knowledge** does not refer to simply being mentally aware of something or someone but rather refers to having a deep, intimate, personal knowledge and experience of something or someone. Here, it refers to having an intimate and personal knowledge or experience of Christ. Alternate translation: “intimately knowing Christ Jesus my Lord” or “deeply knowing and experiencing Christ Jesus my Lord”
278PHP38dh2dἐζημιώθην1See how you translated the word **loss** earlier in this verse and in [3:7](../03/07.md).
279PHP38cez0ἡγοῦμαι2See how you translated the word **consider** earlier in this verse and in [3:7](../03/07.md).
280PHP38ovd9translate-unknownσκύβαλα1During Pauls time this word was used to refer to excrement and that which was considered worthless and worthy of being thrown out. In the original language that Paul wrote this letter in the term **dung** was a crude term that referred to things that were discarded as garbage including dung and the specific meaning was determined by context. Here, this word could be referring to: (1) excrement, since in the preceding verses Paul has been discussing what comes from the flesh. Alternate translation: “excrement” or “crap” (2) garbage, since Paul is discussing what he now considers worth throwing away in order to gain and know Christ. Alternate translation: “garbage” or “refuse” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
281PHP38vgf5κερδήσω1See how you translated the word **gains** in [3:7](../03/07.md).
282PHP38h3kqgrammar-connect-logic-goalἵνα Χριστὸν κερδήσω1The phrase **so that** is a purpose clause. In your translation, follow the conventions of your language for purpose clauses. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of gaining Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
283PHP39iy4kfigs-activepassiveκαὶ εὑρεθῶ ἐν αὐτῷ1be found in himIf it would be clearer in your language, you could translate the passive verbal phrase **be found** with an active form and you can say who did the action. Alternate translation: “and God might find me in him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
284PHP39g9a9figs-explicit ἀλλὰ τὴν διὰ πίστεως Χριστοῦ1not having my own righteousness that is from the lawThe word **that** refers to “righteousness”. Paul assumes his readers will know this from the context. If this would be unclear in your language consider stating this explicitly. Alternate translation: “but the righteousness which is through faith in Christ” or “but the righteousness which comes by faith in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
285PHP39a1fzπίστεως Χριστοῦ1not having my own righteousness that is from the lawIn the original language that Paul wrote this letter in the phrase **faith in Christ** could mean: (1) faith in the person and work of Christ. This phrase would then be translated as **faith in Christ** as the ULT translates it. (2) the faithfulness of Christ. Alternate translation: “the faithfulness of Christ”
286PHP39delyfigs-ellipsisἐπὶ τῇ πίστει1In the phrase **by faith** Paul is leaving out some words that would be needed in many languages. If it would be clearer in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “which comes by faith” or “which is received through faith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
287PHP310ot4awriting-pronounsτοῦ γνῶναι αὐτὸν, καὶ τὴν δύναμιν τῆς ἀναστάσεως αὐτοῦ, καὶ κοινωνίαν παθημάτων αὐτοῦ, συμμορφιζόμενος τῷ θανάτῳ αὐτοῦ1All occurrences of the pronouns **him** and **his** in this verse refer to Christ. If it would be clearer in your language you can translate one or more of these pronouns with the name. Alternate translation: “to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of his sufferings, being conformed to his death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
288PHP310vj4sgrammar-connect-words-phrasesκαὶ1the power of his resurrectionThe first occurrence of the word **and** indicates that what follows is the first aspect of knowing Christ that Paul introduces in explanation of how specifically he wants to know Christ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
289PHP310tam1τοῦ γνῶναι αὐτὸν, καὶ τὴν δύναμιν τῆς ἀναστάσεως αὐτοῦ, καὶ κοινωνίαν παθημάτων αὐτοῦ1In the original language that Paul wrote this letter in, he closely connects the phrase **the power of his resurrection** and the phrase **the fellowship of his sufferings**. He does this because in Pauls mind these two things are inseparably linked and a person cannot know the power of Christs resurrection without first sharing in Christs suffering. Consider the best way to show the close connection between these two phrases in your language.
290PHP310ngz6τοῦ γνῶναι αὐτὸν1Here, the word **know** does not refer to simply being mentally aware of something or someone but rather refers to having a deep, intimate, personal knowledge and experience of something or someone. Here, it refers to having an intimate and personal knowledge or experience of Christ. See how you translated the form of this this word that is in [3:8](../3/8.md). Alternate translation: “to intimately know Christ” or “to deeply know and experience”
291PHP310r3gzgrammar-connect-words-phrasesκαὶ2The second occurrence of the word **and** indicates that what follows is the second aspect of knowing Christ that Paul introduces in explanation of how specifically he wants to know Christ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
292PHP310xm68κοινωνίαν παθημάτων αὐτοῦ1the fellowship of his sufferingsAlternate translation: “participate in his sufferings”
293PHP310xw42figs-activepassiveσυμμορφιζόμενος τῷ θανάτῳ αὐτοῦ1being conformed to his deathIf it would be clearer in your language, you could express the phrase **being conformed to** with an active form. Alternate translation: “taking on the likeness of his death” or see UST (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
294PHP311l4rmτὴν ἐξανάστασιν τὴν ἐκ νεκρῶν1if somehow I might attain to the resurrection that is from the deadAlternate translation: “the resurrection from the dead”
295PHP312xk5qfigs-extrainfoοὐχ ὅτι ἤδη ἔλαβον1Connecting Statement:The word **it** in the phrase **Not that I already received it* could be referring to: (1) spiritual perfection and completion. This phrase would then mean that Paul is saying that he is not yet spiritually perfect or complete. Alternate translation: “Not that I have already attained spiritual perfection” or “Not that I am already spiritually complete” or “Not that Gods work in me is already complete” or “Not that Gods work in me is already perfected” (2) that Paul has not yet reached the goals he has for himself and received his reward. Alternate translation: “Not that I have yet reached my goals and received my reward from God” (3) Paul has not yet finished the work God gave him to do with his life and died and received his reward from God. Alternate translation: “Not that I have finished my work and received my reward from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]])
296PHP312ms3vfigs-activepassiveἤδη ἔλαβον1I already received itIf it would be clearer in your language, you could translate the verbal phrase **received it** with an active form. Alternate translation: “have taken hold of it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
297PHP312h8p7figs-extrainfoἤδη τετελείωμαι1or have already been made perfectHere, the word **perfect**, in the original language that Paul wrote this letter in, means that someone or something has reached full completion and therefore reached its intended purpose or goal. It can also refer to someone reaching full maturity and is used in the New Testament of Christians reaching completeness of Christ-like character. Alternate translation: “been brought to completion” or “have already been made complete” or “have already reached full maturity” or “have already reached full Christ-likeness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]])
298PHP312k9arfigs-activepassiveἤδη τετελείωμαι1or have already been made perfectIf it would be clearer in your language, you could translate the verbal phrase **been made perfect** with an active form. Alternate translation: “that God has already perfected me” or “that God has already perfected his work in me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
299PHP312i5ldεἰ καὶ1but pursuing itHere, the phrase **if also** could be: (1) connected with the phrase **I might grasp** as it is rendered in the ULT and UST. Alternate translation: See UST. (2) an intensive phrase which modifies the phrase **pursuing it**. Alternate translation: “if indeed”. You may also choose to leave this phrase untranslated in your translation.
300PHP312m52vfigs-activepassiveκαταλάβω, ἐφ’ ᾧ καὶ κατελήμφθην ὑπὸ Χριστοῦ Ἰησοῦ1I might grasp that for which I was also grasped by Christ JesusYou 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]])
301PHP313tzg8ἀδελφοί1BrothersSee how you translated the word **brothers** in [Philippians 1:12](../01/12.md) and [3:1](../03/1.md).
302PHP313kqk7figs-extrainfoἐγὼ ἐμαυτὸν οὐ λογίζομαι κατειληφέναι1I do not consider myself to have grasped itPaul does not explicitly state what **it** is that he has not yet **grasped**. He is probably referring to becoming perfectly like Jesus and to fully knowing him. You may choose to state this in your translation as the UST does or you may leave it ambiguous as the ULT does. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]])
303PHP313hjs9figs-ellipsisἓν δέ1forgetting what is behind and straining for what is aheadIn the phrase **But one thing** Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be clearer in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “But I do one thing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
304PHP313ia2bfigs-metaphorτὰ μὲν ὀπίσω ἐπιλανθανόμενος, τοῖς δὲ ἔμπροσθεν ἐπεκτεινόμενος1forgetting what is behind and straining for what is aheadIn the phrase **forgetting what is behind and straining for what is ahead** Paul is using the imagery of a runner who is running in a race against other runners for the purpose of winning the prize. Paul portrays himself as a runner in this metaphor and he continues using this metaphor until the end of [Philippians 3:14](../03/14.md). If this metaphor is unfamiliar in your culture consider using another metaphor that would be familiar or you may state this in plain language without using a metaphor as the UST does. Alternate translation: “like a runner I forget what is behind me and put all of my effort into running toward the finish line that is in front of me” or “like a runner, I have one focus, and therefore I do not look backward as I run but only forward as I strain with all my might so that I will reach the finish line” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
305PHP314z39sfigs-metaphorκατὰ σκοπὸν διώκω εἰς τὸ βραβεῖον τῆς ἄνω κλήσεως τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1I press on toward the goal to the prize of the upward calling of God in Christ JesusIn this verse Paul continues using the metaphor of a runner who is competing in a foot race in order to win a prize. In this verse Paul says that his **goal**, which he works hard for, is to win the **prize** which God promises to give every person who obediently follows Christ. If this metaphor would be unfamiliar in your culture consider using another metaphor or use plain language to translate the idea behind this metaphor. Alternate translation: “I do all I can to pursue the goal of winning the prize of Gods upward call in Christ Jesus” or “I work hard so that I can reach my goal of receiving Gods reward which he gives to all those who obey his upward call in Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
306PHP314jhtvσκοπὸν…εἰς τὸ βραβεῖον τῆς ἄνω κλήσεως τοῦ Θεοῦ1I press on toward the goal to the prize of the upward calling of God in Christ JesusThe phrases **the goal** and **the prize** could be related to each other in one of two ways. They could: (1) both be focusing on the same basic idea. Alternate translation: “the goal which is to be given the prize of Gods upward call” or “my goal which is to receive the prize of Gods upward call” (2) both be focusing on different things in which case **the goal** is referring to the goal of Pauls life and **the prize** is referring to what Paul hopes to receive once he has successfully achieved his goal. Alternate translation: “the goal and towards being given the prize of Gods upward call” or “the goal and towards receiving the prize of Gods upward call”
307PHP314lmr6figs-extrainfoτὸ βραβεῖον τῆς ἄνω κλήσεως τοῦ Θεοῦ1of the upward callingThe phrase **the prize of the upward calling of God** could mean: (1) that **the prize** is **the upward calling of God**. Alternate translation: “receive the prize of Gods upward call” or “receive the prize of Gods heavenward invitation” (2) that the **upward calling of God** is a call to come and receive Gods **prize**. Alternate translation: “answer Gods upward call to receive his prize” or “answer Gods invitation to receive his prize” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]])
308PHP314cq3ffigs-extrainfoτῆς ἄνω κλήσεως τοῦ Θεοῦ1of the upward callingThe word **upward** probably refers to both the origin of Gods call and to the direction of Gods call. In other words, the phrase **the upward calling of God** probably refers both to the fact that the **calling** is from God and that the calling is also a heavenly calling to move towards God. Alternate translation: “Gods heavenward call” or see UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-extrainfo]])
309PHP314agwgfigs-explicitδιώκω…ἄνω κλήσεως τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1of the upward callingThe phrase **in Christ Jesus** could be: (1) modifying the phrase **the upward calling of God**. Alternate translation: “the upward calling of God in Christ Jesus” or “the upward calling of God through Christ Jesus” (2) modifying the phrase **I press on**. Alternate translation: “I press on in Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
310PHP315de4ygrammar-connect-words-phrasesοὖν1as many as are perfect should think this wayThe word **Therefore** indicates that Paul is transitioning from teaching the Philippians using his personal experience in [Philippians 3:4-14](../03/4-14.md) to exhorting them in [Philippians 3:15-17](../03/15-17.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
311PHP315ki7ffigs-ellipsisὅσοι1God will also reveal that to youThe phrase **as many as are** is leaving out some words that are needed in many languages to be completely understandable. If it would be clearer in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “as many of you as are” or “all of you who are” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
312PHP315pb9pὅσοι…τέλειοι1God will also reveal that to youHere, the word **perfect** does not mean “without sin” but rather it means “spiritually mature”. Alternate translation: “as many as are spiritually mature”
313PHP315yy22καὶ τοῦτο ὁ Θεὸς ὑμῖν ἀποκαλύψει1God will also reveal that to youAlternate translation: “God will also make it clear to you” or “God will make sure you know it”
314PHP316pxn9figs-exclusiveεἰς ὃ ἐφθάσαμεν, τῷ αὐτῷ στοιχεῖν1in what we have attained, we should live in itWhen Paul says **we** in this verse, he is speaking of himself and the Philippian Christians so **we** is inclusive here. Your language may require you to mark these two uses of **we** as inclusive forms. Alternate translation: “let us all continue obeying the same truth we have already received” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
315PHP316p3pmεἰς ὃ ἐφθάσαμεν, τῷ αὐτῷ στοιχεῖν1in what we have attained, we should live in itAlternate translation: “in the things that we have attained so far, we should live in them” or “in the things that we have believed so far, we should obey them” or “in the things that we have believed so far, we should act on them”
316PHP317jed4συνμιμηταί μου γίνεσθε1Become imitators of meAlternate translation: “Do what I do” or “Live as I live”
317PHP317yvorfigs-yousingularγίνεσθε1Become imitators of meThe word **Become** is a command given to the Philippian Christians in the plural form. In the original language that Paul wrote this letter in, the word **Become** could be translated as “you become”. If your language has a plural command form that would be appropriate to use in this context, consider using it in your translation of this word. Alternate translation: “I exhort each of you to become” or “Each of you become” or “I command each of you to become” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular)
318PHP317uxc5ἀδελφοίἀδελφοί1brothersSee how you translated the word **brothers** in [Philippians 1:12](../01/12.md).
319PHP317mo8afigs-yousingularσκοπεῖτε1those who are thus walking, just as you have us as an exampleIn the original language that Paul wrote this letter in, the phrase **watch closely** is a command given to the Philippian Christians in the plural form. If your language has a plural command form that would be appropriate to use in this context, consider using it in your translation of this word. Alternate translation: “I exhort each of you to watch closely” or “each of you watch closely” or “I urge each of you to watch closely” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular)
320PHP317h4tvτοὺς οὕτω περιπατοῦντας, καθὼς ἔχετε τύπον ἡμᾶς1those who are thus walking, just as you have us as an exampleAlternate translation: “those people who are already living just as I live, and follow our example” or “those people who are already doing what I do, and imitate us”
321PHP318ab61figs-metonymyπολλοὶ γὰρ περιπατοῦσιν, οὓς πολλάκις ἔλεγον ὑμῖν1many walk … as enemies of the cross of ChristHere, the word **walk** is a Jewish figure of speech meaning to “live” or to “conduct ones life”. In Jewish culture a persons behavior was spoken of as if that person was walking along a path. If this would be unclear in your language consider stating this in plain language. Alternate translation: “For many live—about whom I have often told you” or “For many conduct their lives—about whom I have often told you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
322PHP318zwp3figs-ellipsisπολλοὶ γὰρ1I have often told youThe phrase **For many** leaves out a word that would be needed in some languages to be completely clear. If it would be clearer in your language, you could supply the missing word from the context. Alternate translation: “For many people walk” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
323PHP318h6pcκλαίων, λέγω1weeping, I sayAlternate translation: “telling you with great sadness”
324PHP318n8q2figs-metonymyτοὺς ἐχθροὺς τοῦ σταυροῦ τοῦ Χριστοῦ1as enemies of the cross of ChristPaul is figuratively describing the good news of Jesus death and resurrection and the work of sharing this good news by associating these things with **the cross of Christ**. Here, the phrase **the cross of Christ** is synonymous with the gospel message and the work of spreading the gospel message. The phrase **enemies of the cross of Christ** refers to the people who are opposed to the message of the gospel and oppose those who share it with others. If this is not clear in your language you could express this with plain language. Alternate translation: “as enemies of the good news about Jesus” or “as enemies of the message about Jesus and enemies of those who proclaim it” or “as enemies of the message about Jesus and enemies of those who share it with others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
325PHP319v8gvὧν τὸ τέλος ἀπώλεια1whose end is destructionAlternate translation: “God will destroy these people in the future” or “In the future there will come a day when God will destroy these people”.
326PHP319hn9ifigs-synecdocheὧν ὁ Θεὸς ἡ κοιλία1whose god is their bellyHere, Paul uses **belly** figuratively to represent all physical desires for pleasure. By Paul calling their **belly** their **god** he means that these people love and serve their physical desire for pleasure rather than loving and serving God. If this is not clear in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or you can use plain language. Alternate translation: “who serve their desire for food and other pleasures rather than God” or “who obey their physical appetites instead of God” or “who love pleasure more than they love God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
327PHP319u9clfigs-metonymyἡ δόξα ἐν τῇ αἰσχύνῃ αὐτῶν1their glory is in their shameHere, **shame** stands for the actions that people should be ashamed of but are not. Alternate translation: “they are proud of the things that should cause them shame” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
328PHP319sv5zfigs-metonymyοἱ τὰ ἐπίγεια φρονοῦντες1who are thinking about earthly thingsHere, **earthly** refers to all the things that pertain to everyday living on earth. The implied contrast that Paul is making here, is between earthly things and spiritual things. Alternate translation: “All they think about is earthly things instead of the things of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
329PHP320q1ccfigs-exclusiveἡμῶν…ἀπεκδεχόμεθα1General Information:Here, when Paul uses **our** and **we** he is referring to himself and the believers in Philippi. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
330PHP320u8yrfigs-abstractnounsπολίτευμα1our citizenship exists in heavenIf it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **citizenship** with a concrete noun such as “citizen.” Alternate translation: see UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
331PHP321eye2figs-abstractnounsδύνασθαι1who will transform our lowly bodyIf it would be clearer in your language, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **power** with an adjective such as “powerful”. Alternate translation: See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
332PHP4introrp5c0# 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]])
333PHP41zk6qfigs-you0General 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]])
334PHP41xmc40Connecting 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.
335PHP41fe2yἀδελφοί μου ἀγαπητοὶ καὶ ἐπιπόθητοι1my brothers, beloved and longed for“my fellow believers, I love you and I greatly desire to see you”
336PHP41ngs7ἀδελφοί1brothersSee how you translated this in [Philippians 1:12](../01/12.md).
337PHP41wx5wfigs-metonymyχαρὰ καὶ στέφανός μου1my joy and crownPaul 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]])
338PHP41dz44οὕτως στήκετε ἐν Κυρίῳ, ἀγαπητοί1in this way stand firm in the Lord, beloved“so continue living for the Lord in the way that I have taught you, dear friends”
339PHP42x5qftranslate-namesΕὐοδίαν παρακαλῶ, καὶ Συντύχην παρακαλῶ1I urge Euodia, and I urge SyntycheThese 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]])
340PHP42iyq7figs-metonymyτὸ αὐτὸ φρονεῖν ἐν Κυρίῳ1to think the same in the LordThe 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]])
341PHP43yb3ffigs-yousingularἐρωτῶ καὶ σέ1I also ask youHere, **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]])
342PHP43hdz7figs-metaphorγνήσιε σύνζυγε1true companionThis 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]])
343PHP43cm3utranslate-namesμετὰ καὶ Κλήμεντος1with 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]])
344PHP43s9h9ὧν τὰ ὀνόματα ἐν βίβλῳ ζωῆς1whose names are in the Book of Life“whose names God has written in the Book of Life”
345PHP44elt7χαίρετε ἐν Κυρίῳ1Rejoice in the Lord“be happy because of all the Lord has done.” See how you translated this in [Philippians 3:1](../03/01.md).
346PHP45snk5ὁ Κύριος ἐγγύς1The Lord is nearThis 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.
347PHP46h63gἐν παντὶ, τῇ προσευχῇ καὶ τῇ δεήσει μετὰ εὐχαριστίας, τὰ αἰτήματα ὑμῶν γνωριζέσθω πρὸς τὸν Θεόν1in 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”
348PHP47u1szἡ εἰρήνη τοῦ Θεοῦ1the peace of God“the peace that God gives”
349PHP47zr4xἡ ὑπερέχουσα πάντα νοῦν1which surpasses all understanding“which is more than we can understand”
350PHP47sb6sfigs-personificationφρουρήσει τὰς καρδίας ὑμῶν καὶ τὰ νοήματα ὑμῶν ἐν Χριστῷ1will guard your hearts and your minds in ChristThis presents Gods 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]])
351PHP47tsz6figs-metonymyφρουρήσει τὰς καρδίας ὑμῶν καὶ τὰ νοήματα ὑμῶν ἐν Χριστῷ1will guard your hearts and your minds in ChristHere, **hearts** is a metonym for a persons 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]])
352PHP48b8igτὸ λοιπόν1As to the restAs Paul ends his letter, he gives a summary of how believers should live to have peace with God.
353PHP48fxn5ἀδελφοί1brothersSee how you translated this in [Philippians 1:12](../01/12.md).
354PHP48r275ὅσα προσφιλῆ1as many as lovely“whatever things are pleasing”
355PHP48pv1iὅσα εὔφημα1as many as reputable“whatever thing people admire” or “whatever things people respect”
356PHP48i5glεἴ τις ἀρετὴ1if anything is virtuous“if they are morally good”
357PHP48e9ebεἴ τις ἔπαινος1if anything is praiseworthy“and if they are things that people praise”
358PHP49m145ἃ καὶ ἐμάθετε καὶ παρελάβετε, καὶ ἠκούσατε καὶ εἴδετε, ἐν ἐμοί1And what you learned and received and heard and saw in me“And everything that I have taught and shown you”
359PHP410pwh90Connecting 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.
360PHP411ts2kαὐτάρκης εἶναι1to be content“to be satisfied” or “to be happy”
361PHP411ew5eἐν οἷς εἰμι1in whatever I am“no matter what my situation is”
362PHP412lgp9figs-explicitοἶδα καὶ ταπεινοῦσθαι, οἶδα καὶ περισσεύειν1I know both how to be brought low and I know how to aboundPaul knows how to live happily having either no possessions or many possessions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
363PHP412i9vpfigs-parallelismχορτάζεσθαι καὶ πεινᾶν, καὶ περισσεύειν καὶ ὑστερεῖσθαι1to being filled and to being hungry, and to abounding and to being in needThese 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]])
364PHP412xrp3figs-merismχορτάζεσθαι καὶ πεινᾶν1to be filled and to be hungryThis 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]])
365PHP412ufv4figs-merismπερισσεύειν καὶ ὑστερεῖσθαι1to abound and to be in needThis 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]])
366PHP413z1pbπάντα ἰσχύω ἐν τῷ ἐνδυναμοῦντί με1I can do all things in him who strengthens me“I can do all things because Christ gives me strength”
367PHP414bs720Connecting 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)).
368PHP414fe2zfigs-metaphorμου τῇ θλίψει1in my afflictionPaul 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]])
369PHP415w23wfigs-metonymyἀρχῇ τοῦ εὐαγγελίου1the beginning of the gospelPaul refers to the **gospel** here as meaning his preaching of the gospel. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
370PHP415dyf8figs-doublenegativesοὐδεμία μοι ἐκκλησία ἐκοινώνησεν εἰς λόγον δόσεως καὶ λήμψεως, εἰ μὴ ὑμεῖς μόνοι1no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving except you aloneYou 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]])
371PHP417e9g9οὐχ ὅτι ἐπιζητῶ τὸ δόμα1Not that I seek the giftPaul 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”
372PHP417bh3tfigs-metaphorἐπιζητῶ τὸν καρπὸν τὸν πλεονάζοντα εἰς λόγον ὑμῶν1I seek the fruit that increases to your accountPaul 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]])
373PHP418p6y10Connecting 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.
374PHP418fs44ἀπέχω…πάντα1I have everything in fullThis 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.
375PHP418en6tfigs-explicitπερισσεύω1I aboundPaul means that he has plenty of the things that he needs for himself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
376PHP418s68vfigs-metaphorὀσμὴν εὐωδίας, θυσίαν δεκτήν, εὐάρεστον τῷ Θεῷ1an aroma, a sweet smell, an acceptable, pleasing sacrifice to GodPaul speaks of the gift from the Philippian church as if it were a **sacrifice** offered to **God** on an altar. Paul implies that the churchs 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]])
377PHP419r96pfigs-idiomπληρώσει πᾶσαν χρείαν ὑμῶν1will fulfill all your needsThe 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]])
378PHP419xmk2κατὰ τὸ πλοῦτος αὐτοῦ ἐν δόξῃ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ1according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus“from his glorious riches that he gives through Christ Jesus”
379PHP420fba5τῷ δὲ Θεῷ…ἡμῶν1Now to our GodThe word **Now** marks the closing prayer and the end of this section of the letter.
380PHP421h2jrοἱ…ἀδελφοί1The brothersThis refers to those people who were either ministering with or to Paul.
381PHP421z65aἀδελφοί1brothersSee how you translated this in [Philippians 1:12](../01/12.md).
382PHP422rg96μάλιστα…οἱ ἐκ τῆς Καίσαρος οἰκίας1especially those from the household of CaesarThis refers to servants who worked in Caesars palace. “especially the fellow believers who work in the palace of Caesar”
383PHP423a3f8figs-synecdocheμετὰ τοῦ πνεύματος ὑμῶν1be with your spiritPaul 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]])
384PHP321n2lhτῷ σώματι τῆς δόξης αὐτοῦ1our citizenship exists in heavenHere, the pronoun **his** refers to Christ. Alternate translation: “Christs glorious body”