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

NASB

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

— Philippians 1:21, NASB

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Philippians 1:21 in Other Translations

7 versions All translations

Philippians 1 — Context

18

What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed; and in this I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice,

19

for I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayers and the provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,

20

according to my earnest expectation and hope, that I will not be put to shame in anything, but that with all boldness, Christ will even now, as always, be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.

21

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

22

But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose.

23

But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better;

24

yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake.

Philippians 1:21 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does Philippians 1:21 say?
Philippians 1:21 in the NASB 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 (NASB): “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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