1 Peter 3:9 Meaning and Explanation
“Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Rather than repaying evil or insult in kind, believers are to bless, for they are called to inherit blessing.
What Does 1 Peter 3:9 Mean?
Peter forbids the natural reflex of retaliation. Evil is not to be met with evil, nor insult with insult. Instead, the believer is to answer with blessing, the very opposite of what was given.
The reasoning is beautiful: they were called precisely for this, and the path of blessing leads to inheriting blessing. Those who have received mercy are to extend it, even to those who wrong them. Peter does not ask his readers to absorb evil passively but to overcome it actively, returning good for harm. In blessing their offenders, they walk toward the blessing prepared for them.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Peter 3:9
What does 1 Peter 3:9 mean?
Rather than repaying evil or insult in kind, believers are to bless, for they are called to inherit blessing.