⁴ although I might be able to put ·trust [reliance; confidence] in ·myself [human ability/effort; ^Tthe flesh]. If anyone thinks he has a reason to ·trust [rely; have confidence] in ·himself [human ability/effort; ^Tthe flesh], he should know that I have greater reason. ⁵ I was circumcised eight days after my birth [Gen. 17:12; Lev. 12:3]. I am from the people of Israel and the tribe of Benjamin. I am a ·Hebrew, and my parents were Hebrews [or true Hebrew; Hebrew through and through; ^LHebrew of Hebrews]. With regard to the ·law of Moses [^Llaw], I was a Pharisee [^CPharisees strictly followed the OT law and expanded on it with many traditions]. ⁶ ·I was so enthusiastic [^LWith regard to (religious) zeal,] I persecuted the church. With regard to ·obedience to the law of Moses [^Lrighteousness based on the law] I was ·faultless [blameless].