Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,

PHILIPPIANS 3:8KJV
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Philippians 3:8 (KJV)

What does Philippians 3:8 mean?

Philippians 3:8 says that Paul considers everything else in life worthless compared to knowing Christ Jesus as his Lord. Paul has willingly given up all things and now sees them as garbage, so that he can gain Christ.

Paul is writing this letter to the Christians in Philippi, sharing his personal perspective. He is explaining that, even though he once had many reasons to be proud by human standards, he now sees those things as unimportant compared to the value of truly knowing Jesus. Paul uses strong language to show how little he thinks of his past achievements or possessions when compared to his relationship with Christ.

The Greek behind Philippians 3:8

  • ὑπερέχον (huperechon, "excellency"): This word means something that is far above or surpassing. Paul is saying that knowing Christ is not just better, but far greater than anything else.
  • γνῶσις (gnōsis, "knowledge"): This word refers to personal, experiential knowledge, not just information. Paul is talking about a deep, relational knowing of Jesus.
  • σκύβαλον (skubalon, "dung"): This is a very strong word, often used for refuse or garbage, even excrement. Paul is emphasizing just how little value he places on everything else compared to Christ.
  • ζημιόω (zēmioō, "loss"): Paul uses this word to show that he has actively let go of or suffered the loss of all things for Christ’s sake, not just passively missed out.

Why Philippians 3:8 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Paul’s dedication to Christ is not just about religious duty, but about valuing a relationship with Jesus above all else.
  • The strong language Paul uses challenges readers to rethink what is truly valuable in life, especially compared to knowing Christ.
  • Philippians 3:8 connects to Paul’s earlier points in the chapter, where he lists his impressive background, and shows that none of those things matter to him anymore in light of Christ.

Where else these words appear

“doubtless” Greek G3304 · used in 4 verses

  • Luke 11:28 But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.
  • Romans 9:20 Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus?
  • Romans 10:18 But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world.

“loss” Greek G2209 · used in 4 verses

  • Acts 27:10 And said unto them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives.
  • Acts 27:21 But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss.
  • Philippians 3:7 But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.

“excellency” Greek G5242 · used in 5 verses

  • Romans 13:1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
  • Philippians 2:3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
  • Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

“loss” Greek G2210 · used in 6 verses

  • Matthew 16:26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
  • Mark 8:36 For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?
  • 1 Corinthians 3:15 If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.