en_tn_condensed/php/01/21.md

For to me

These words are emphatic. They indicate that this is Paul's personal experience.

to live is Christ

Here pleasing and serving Christ is spoken of as Paul's only purpose for living. Alternate translation: "to go on living is an opportunity to please Christ" (See: rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-metaphor)

to die is gain

Here death is spoken of as "gain." Possible meanings for "gain" are 1) Paul's death will help spread the message of the gospel or 2) Paul will be in a better situation. (See: rc://en/ta/man/jit/figs-metaphor)