1 Peter 3:9

KJV

Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.

KJV (with Strong's)

Not {G3361} rendering {G591} evil {G2556} for {G473} evil {G2556}, or {G2228} railing {G3059} for {G473} railing {G3059}: but {G1161} contrariwise {G5121} blessing {G2129}; knowing {G1492} that {G3754} ye are {G2564} thereunto {G1519}{G5124} called {G2564}, that {G2443} ye should inherit {G2816} a blessing {G2127}.

Complete Jewish Bible

not repaying evil with evil or insult with insult, but, on the contrary, with blessing. For it is to this that you have been called, so that you may receive a blessing.

Berean Standard Bible

Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.

American Standard Version

not rendering evil for evil, or reviling for reviling; but contrariwise blessing; for hereunto were ye called, that ye should inherit a blessing.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Peter 3:9 delivers a profound ethical imperative for believers, calling them to transcend the natural human impulse for retaliation. Instead of repaying hostility with hostility or insults with insults, Christians are commanded to actively respond with blessing. This radical counter-cultural conduct is not merely a moral suggestion but is deeply rooted in their divine calling and assured future inheritance of God's abundant favor and spiritual riches.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a pivotal ethical command within Peter's broader exhortation on Christian conduct amidst suffering and opposition. It immediately follows a general call for unity, compassion, brotherly love, tenderheartedness, and humility among believers in [1 Peter 3:8](/1_peter/3-8 "1 Peter 3:8 - Call to Unity and Compassion"). Prior to this, Peter addresses specific household relationships, providing guidance for wives and husbands in [1 Peter 3:1-7](/1_peter/3-1-7 "1 Peter 3:1-7 - Instructions for Wives and Husbands"), emphasizing respectful and godly conduct. Verse 9 then expands this ethical framework to encompass all interactions, especially with those who might cause harm or revile. It sets the stage for the subsequent discussion on suffering for righteousness' sake in [1 Peter 3:13-17](/1_peter/3-13-17 "1 Peter 3:13-17 - Suffering for Righteousness' Sake"), portraying the believer's response as a powerful witness.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Peter is writing to scattered believers in various Roman provinces of Asia Minor (Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia), who were likely experiencing social ostracism, slander, and perhaps even official persecution for their faith. In the Greco-Roman world, honor and shame were paramount, and retaliation for insults or wrongs was not only common but often expected as a means of preserving one's reputation. To "render evil for evil" was a deeply ingrained societal norm. Peter's command to "contrariwise blessing" was therefore profoundly counter-cultural, challenging believers to live by a different standard—that of Christ—which would have marked them as distinct and often misunderstood by the surrounding society.

* **Key Themes:** [1 Peter](/1_peter/1 "The First Epistle of Peter") is replete with themes of Christian identity, suffering, hope, and practical ethics. Verse 9 contributes significantly to the theme of **Christian ethics in a hostile world**, emphasizing the radical nature of Christ's teachings on love for enemies. It underscores the theme of **divine calling**, reminding believers that their very purpose in Christ is to live a life that reflects God's character, even when wronged. Furthermore, the promise to "inherit a blessing" ties into the pervasive theme of **eschatological hope and future inheritance** that runs throughout the epistle, motivating believers to endure present suffering and live righteously in anticipation of eternal reward. This call to blessing echoes the spirit of Jesus's Sermon on the Mount, particularly [Matthew 5:44](/matthew/5-44 "Matthew 5:44 - Love Your Enemies"), and aligns with Pauline exhortations in [Romans 12:17-21](/romans/12-17-21 "Romans 12:17-21 - Overcoming Evil with Good").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **contrariwise (Greek, _tounantíon'_):** (G5121) This adverb, a contraction meaning "on the contrary," highlights the radical nature of Peter's command. It signifies a complete reversal of the natural human inclination to retaliate. Instead of mirroring the negative action, believers are called to move in the exact opposite direction, actively choosing a response that defies worldly logic and demonstrates a supernatural capacity for grace.
* **blessing (Greek, _eulogía'_):** (G2129) Derived from a compound meaning "to speak well of," this noun refers to "fine speaking," commendation, or adoration. In a religious context, it denotes a benediction, an invocation of divine favor, or even a tangible benefit or largess. Here, it implies not merely refraining from evil speech but actively speaking well of, praying for, and seeking the good of those who inflict harm or revile. It's a proactive, positive, and transformative response.
* **called (Greek, _kaléō'_):** (G2564) This verb means "to call," often aloud, and implies a divine summons or appointment. In this context, it emphasizes that the believer's ability and responsibility to bless those who curse them is not a self-imposed burden but a direct outcome of God's sovereign initiative. It points to a divine purpose and identity bestowed upon them, empowering them to live out this counter-cultural mandate as part of their very vocation in Christ.
* **inherit (Greek, _klēronoméō'_):** (G2816) This verb means "to be an heir to" or "to obtain by inheritance," whether literally or figuratively. It connects the believer's obedient and gracious conduct to a guaranteed future reward. The "blessing" they are to inherit is not merely a reciprocal earthly benefit but the fullness of God's salvation, eternal life, and all the spiritual riches promised to His children, signifying a secure and glorious destiny.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing":** This initial clause presents a clear negative command, forbidding the natural human impulse to retaliate. "Evil for evil" (Greek: _kakon anti kakou_) refers to repaying harmful actions with harmful actions. "Railing for railing" (Greek: _loidoria anti loidorias_) specifically addresses verbal abuse, insults, or slander. Peter prohibits Christians from engaging in the cycle of vengeance, whether through physical harm or verbal attacks, thereby breaking the pattern of worldly retribution.
* **"but contrariwise blessing":** This is the positive counter-command, introduced by the strong adversative "but contrariwise." It demands an active, opposite response to mistreatment. Instead of merely refraining from evil, believers are to proactively "bless" their adversaries. This "blessing" involves speaking well of them, praying for their good, and potentially even acting kindly towards them, demonstrating a supernatural love that transcends personal offense.
* **"knowing that ye are thereunto called":** This phrase provides the first motivation for such radical conduct. Believers are to act this way because they have been divinely "called" to it. Their very identity and purpose in Christ involve living out this principle of non-retaliation and active blessing. It is not an optional suggestion but an integral part of their spiritual vocation, a reflection of God's character in their lives.
* **"that ye should inherit a blessing":** This final clause offers the second, eschatological motivation. The purpose of this divine calling and the practice of blessing others is so that believers might "inherit a blessing." This "blessing" refers to the full measure of God's favor, salvation, eternal life, and all the spiritual and eternal rewards promised to those who faithfully follow Christ. It implies that their present obedience in blessing others secures their future enjoyment of God's ultimate blessing.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Antithesis** as its primary literary device, sharply contrasting the worldly response of "rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing" with the Christian command to "contrariwise blessing." This stark opposition highlights the radical nature of Christian ethics. Furthermore, the verse functions as an **Imperative**, issuing a direct command for Christian conduct. This command is then followed by a **Reasoning Clause** introduced by "knowing that," which provides the theological and teleological basis for the imperative. This structure, moving from prohibition to positive command, and then to divine motivation, effectively communicates Peter's powerful message.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse stands as a powerful testament to the transformative power of the Gospel, calling believers to embody a radical ethic that transcends human nature and societal norms. It is a direct outworking of the new covenant, where the law of retaliation ("an eye for an eye") is superseded by the law of love and grace. The command to bless those who curse us is not merely a moral platitude but a deep theological truth rooted in the very character of God, who "makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust" ([Matthew 5:45](/matthew/5-45 "Matthew 5:45 - God's Impartial Love")). By choosing blessing over retaliation, believers participate in God's redemptive work, demonstrating His love and patience to a world steeped in cycles of vengeance. This act of blessing is an act of faith, trusting God's justice and sovereignty rather than seeking immediate vindication.

* [Romans 12:17](/romans/12-17 "Romans 12:17 - Repay No One Evil for Evil")
* [Luke 6:28](/luke/6-28 "Luke 6:28 - Bless Those Who Curse You")
* [Proverbs 20:22](/proverbs/20-22 "Proverbs 20:22 - Do Not Say, 'I Will Repay Evil'")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Peter 3:9 challenges believers to a profound reorientation of their natural responses to injustice and hostility. In a world increasingly polarized and quick to condemn, this verse calls us to embody a counter-cultural grace. It means consciously choosing to break cycles of negativity, whether in personal relationships, professional interactions, or even online discourse. Instead of engaging in verbal sparring, slander, or seeking to "win" an argument through demeaning others, we are called to speak words of grace, pray for those who despitefully use us, and actively seek their good. This is not passive acceptance of wrong but an active, Spirit-empowered choice to reflect Christ's character, trusting that God is the ultimate arbiter of justice. It requires humility to forgo our "right" to retaliate and faith to believe that God's promised blessing for our obedience far outweighs any fleeting satisfaction of vengeance. Living out this verse is a powerful witness to the transformative power of the Gospel, demonstrating a love that is truly divine.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of my life (personal, professional, online) do I struggle most with the temptation to "render evil for evil" or "railing for railing"?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to proactively "bless" someone who has wronged me or spoken ill of me?**
* **How does my understanding of God's divine calling and my future inheritance motivate me to live out this command, even when it feels difficult or unnatural?**

### FAQ
**What does "railing" mean in this context, and why is it specifically mentioned alongside "evil"?**

Answer: In 1 Peter 3:9, "railing" (Greek: _loidoria_, G3059) refers specifically to abusive language, reviling, insults, or slander. It encompasses verbal attacks designed to demean, discredit, or provoke. It is mentioned alongside "evil" (Greek: _kakos_, G2556), which denotes general harm or wickedness, to highlight that the Christian's non-retaliatory ethic applies not only to physical or tangible wrongs but also to verbal aggression. In an honor-shame culture, verbal insults could be profoundly damaging to one's reputation and often provoked strong retaliatory responses. Peter emphasizes that believers must abstain from both harmful actions and harmful words, reflecting a holistic commitment to Christ-like conduct.

**Why is it so difficult for Christians to obey the command to "contrariwise blessing"?**

Answer: Obeying the command to "contrariwise blessing" is profoundly difficult because it goes against our natural human instincts. Our fallen nature often defaults to self-preservation, justice (as we perceive it), and the desire for vindication or revenge when wronged. Culturally, many societies encourage standing up for oneself, often through aggressive means. Furthermore, blessing an enemy requires humility, self-control, and a supernatural love that can only be empowered by the Holy Spirit. It means surrendering our perceived right to retaliate and trusting God's ultimate justice, which can be a significant challenge to our pride and desire for immediate satisfaction. It is a call to imitate Christ, who "when he was reviled, reviled not again" ([1 Peter 2:23](/1_peter/2-23 "1 Peter 2:23 - Christ's Example of Suffering")).

**What exactly does it mean to "inherit a blessing" in this verse, and how does it relate to our actions?**

Answer: To "inherit a blessing" (Greek: _klēronomēō eulogía_, G2816 and G2127/G2129) refers to receiving the full measure of God's favor, salvation, and eternal rewards. It encompasses the spiritual riches promised to believers, including eternal life, fellowship with God, and the ultimate consummation of their salvation. This inheritance is not earned by our actions, but it is secured and experienced by those who walk in obedience to God's calling. Our present actions of "contrariwise blessing" are a demonstration of our faith and alignment with God's character, which confirms our status as His children and heirs. It means that our gracious conduct in this life is intrinsically linked to our future enjoyment of God's abundant goodness, serving as a powerful motivation for enduring in righteousness, as seen in [Matthew 5:11-12](/matthew/5-11-12 "Matthew 5:11-12 - Blessed Are You When Persecuted").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Peter 3:9 finds its ultimate fulfillment and enabling power in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the supreme example of one who "did not render evil for evil, or railing for railing." Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus endured immense opposition, slander, and ultimately, the most horrific injustice of the cross, yet He responded with grace and blessing. On the cross, He prayed, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do" ([Luke 23:34](/luke/23-34 "Luke 23:34 - Jesus' Prayer for Forgiveness")), embodying the very essence of "contrariwise blessing." His entire life was a demonstration of blessing humanity, even those who rejected and crucified Him, culminating in His atoning sacrifice that brings the ultimate "blessing" of salvation and reconciliation with God. Believers are "called" to this very way of life because they are "in Christ" ([2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ")), empowered by His Spirit to imitate His example. The "blessing" we are to inherit is the eternal life and glorious inheritance secured by Christ's resurrection, which guarantees that our present suffering and obedient acts of blessing are not in vain, but lead to an eternal weight of glory ([2 Corinthians 4:17](/2_corinthians/4-17 "2 Corinthians 4:17 - Our Light and Momentary Troubles")). Thus, Christ is both the perfect model and the divine enabler of this radical call to bless.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Romans 12:17

Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

Proverbs 20:22

¶ Say not thou, I will recompense evil; [but] wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.

Romans 12:14

Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.

Romans 12:19

Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

Romans 12:21

Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

1 Thessalonians 5:15

See that none render evil for evil unto any [man]; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all [men].

Luke 6:27

¶ But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,