What does Philippians 3:5 mean?

Explanation

Philippians 3:5 is a verse where the Apostle Paul presents his Jewish credentials to establish the fact that he has a legitimate background in Judaism, which gives him the authority to speak on matters of faith and law.

Paul states this in the context of arguing that these credentials are ultimately insignificant compared to knowing Christ.

"Circumcised the eighth day" refers to the Jewish ritual of circumcision that God commanded Abraham to perform on male infants as a sign of the covenant (Genesis 17:12). Adhering to this practice confirmed that Paul was born into a Jewish family that observed the Law of Moses.

"Of the stock of Israel" indicates that Paul was not a convert to Judaism but a natural-born Israelite, aligned with God's chosen people.

"Of the tribe of Benjamin" speaks to Paul's tribal lineage. The tribe of Benjamin was one of the twelve tribes of Israel and had a history of loyalty and valor.

"An Hebrew of the Hebrews" suggests that Paul was a Jew both by birth and in practice, perhaps also implying that he came from a family that spoke Hebrew and strictly followed Jewish customs and traditions.

"As touching the law, a Pharisee;" means that Paul belonged to the sect of Pharisees, a group known for their strict observance of the Law and oral traditions.

This verse is a collection of the spiritual and cultural achievements of which Paul could have boasted, but instead, he uses them to make the point that all worldly credentials pale in comparison to his relationship with Jesus Christ.

Historical Context

Philippians 3:5 is part of a letter written by Paul to the church in Philippi, a Roman colony in Macedonia, around AD 60-62 while Paul was under house arrest in Rome.

At this time, certain Jewish Christian teachers, often called Judaizers, were insisting that non-Jewish Christians adhere to Jewish laws and customs, including circumcision.

Paul wrote against this view, advocating that faith in Christ alone was necessary for righteousness.

Paul draws on his own history to show that if anyone could have had confidence in the flesh (Jewish heritage and law-keeping), it was him.

However, he counts all that as loss for the sake of Christ. By citing his Jewish heritage, he is demonstrating that his shift to Christian faith isn't due to a lack of Jewish credentials but rather because he found something far greater in Jesus Christ.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives interpret this verse in context with Paul's broader argument in Philippians.

From a Protestant viewpoint, this verse is often cited to argue Sola Fide, the doctrine that faith alone is enough for salvation, apart from works of the law.

The Catholic interpretation may not dispute the importance of faith but might emphasize that Paul's point is the insufficiency of Jewish law to save, rather than a dismissal of the role of good deeds and the church's sacraments.

Some scholars suggest that in this passage, Paul is illustrating the concept of 'new creation' in Christ, where former religious and social identities are subsumed by one's identity in Jesus.

Practical Applications

The practical application of Philippians 3:5 in one’s life involves an examination of personal achievements and credentials.

The verse encourages believers to consider what they might be placing their confidence in, outside of Christ, and to let go of these sources of pride.

While accomplishments and heritage may be important, they should not be the foundation of one's identity or faith.

In a broader sense, this verse can also encourage believers to be inclusive and not to regard cultural, social, or religious backgrounds as barriers to unity in Christ.

Cross-References

• Genesis 17:12: "And he that is eight days old shall be circumcised among you, every man child in your generations, he that is born in the house, or bought with money of any stranger, which is not of thy seed."
• Romans 2:28-29: "For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God."
• 2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek language and their meanings:

• "Peritome" (περιτομή): This term, translated as "circumcised," specifically refers to the physical rite of circumcision practiced among the Jews.
• "Eighth" (ὀγδόην): This number corroborates the specific timing of circumcision commanded by the Mosaic Law.
• "Beniamin” (Βενιαμίν): Refers to the tribe of Benjamin.
• "Hebraios" (Ἑβραῖος): This term implies Hebrew lineage and may suggest the retention of Hebrew language and customs.
• "Pharisaioi" (Φαρισαῖος): This identifies Paul with the Pharisees, emphasizing the strict adherence to laws and traditions.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Paul's credentials could be compared to aristocratic credentials in other cultures, symbolizing prestige and authority.

In ancient myths, it would be akin to claiming descent from a god or hero.

In other religions, parallels might be found in those who claim a particular lineage or training that sets them apart, such as the Brahmin caste in Hinduism or the concept of apostolic succession in certain Christian traditions.

Scientific Perspectives

While there is no direct scientific content in Philipians 3:5, modern genetics and anthropology can shed light on the concepts of lineage and ethnic identity that Paul mentions.

Scientifically, it is recognized that cultural practices like circumcision have a variety of health effects and implications, but from a genetic standpoint, there may not be as clear a correlation to spiritual identity as suggested by ancient cultural practices.

Commentaries

• Adam Clarke Commentary: Clarke stresses that the privileges Paul lists are those esteemed by the Jews to be of highest value.

He explains that Paul was showing that he was not an apostate from the Mosaic law through choice, as he had more to lose by becoming a Christian than most Jews.

• Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary: Henry views this verse as part of Paul's credentials to 'glory' in the flesh if he had wanted to.

But instead, Paul counted all these things as loss for Christ.

• Pulpit Commentary: This commentary elaborates on Paul's 'advantages' or 'confidence in the flesh,' which he renounced for the excellency of knowledge of Christ Jesus.

The Pulpit acknowledges his sincerity as a Pharisee before his conversion.

• Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges: This source explains that Paul's aim here is to show his strong grounds for trust in the flesh, which he is now eager to disclaim in view of the "surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus."