Philippians 1:21 kjv — For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.

King James Version

"For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain."

— Philippians 1:21, King James Version

Read in Another Translation

5 of 21 translations

Philippians 1:21 in Other Translations

6 versions All translations

Philippians 1 — Context

18

What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.

19

For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,

20

According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.

21

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.

22

But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not.

23

For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:

24

Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.

Philippians 1:21 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Philippians 1:21 say?
Philippians 1:21 in the King James Version reads: “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”
Where is Philippians 1:21 in the Bible?
Philippians 1:21 is found in the New Testament, in the book of Philippians, chapter 1, verse 21.
Who wrote Philippians?
Philippians is traditionally attributed to Paul the Apostle (from prison). It was written c. AD 60–62.
What is the book of Philippians about?
Written from prison, Philippians is the most joyful letter in the New Testament — a tender thank-you to a beloved church and a call to humble unity, modeled supremely by Christ who "emptied himself" and was exalted as Lord. Joy in any circumstance is its heartbeat.
What are the major themes of Philippians?
Philippians explores themes including Joy, Humility, Christ-likeness, Contentment, Citizenship in Heaven. These themes shape the meaning and context of Philippians 1:21.
What translation should I read Philippians 1:21 in?
Philippians 1:21 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize Philippians 1:21?
Philippians 1:21 reads (KJV): “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.
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