What does 1 Peter 3:5 mean?

For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: 1 Peter 3:5

Explanation

1 Peter 3:5 discusses how the holy women of the past who had their hope in God used to adorn themselves. This verse particularly emphasizes the expression of internal qualities over external adornments. It reflects on the demeanor and character which was typified by these women, highlighting qualities such as hope in God and submission to their own husbands. The phrase “in subjection unto their own husbands” pertains to a willing alignment to the leadership of their husbands as part of a marital relationship, which was culturally normative and valued in the context of the time.

Historical Context

The epistle of 1 Peter was written by the apostle Peter and is believed to have been penned around A.D. 60-65. This was a period of early Christianity where the Church faced persecution from the Roman Empire and within the religious environments of Judaism. The social milieu of the time was patriarchal, and women were generally expected to take a submissive role in society, particularly in marriage.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse is often discussed in terms of Christian ethics and marital relationships. It suggests that Christian women, like the holy women of the past, should be characterized by a gentle and quiet spirit, which is considered precious in the sight of God. Some theological interpretations also examine the idea of submission in the context of equality before God, where submission does not imply inferiority, but a chosen role within a marital relationship as designed by God.

Practical Applications

The practical applications of this verse can be a topic of debate in modern contexts. Some derive from this verse that in marriage, there should be a structure of mutual respect where one spouse supports the leadership of the other. Others extrapolate that the essence of the teaching is to focus on the cultivation of inner virtues over outward appearances. In daily life, this passage encourages individuals, particularly women, to prioritize their character and faith in God over societal expectations of beauty and adornment.

Cross-References

• Ephesians 5:22-23: “Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.”
• Proverbs 31:30: “Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.”
• Titus 2:3-5: “The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.”

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text of this verse include:

• “Holy women” (Greek: ἅγιαι γυναῖκες, hagiai gynaikes) implies women set apart for God.
• “Adorned” (Greek: ἐκόσμουν, ekosmoun) which can refer to both physical adornment and arranging one’s behavior.
• “Being in subjection” (Greek: ὑποτασσόμεναι, hypotassomenai) indicates an orderly alignment or submission.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing this verse with other ancient cultural traditions, many ancient societies often placed a premium on physical appearance and adornment for women. In contrast, early Christianity advocated for the internal qualities of faith and character. In other religions such as Judaism and Islam, there are also teachings that emphasize modesty and inner virtues over outward appearances.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific standpoint, one might consider examining the psychological and social factors that influence marital relationships and gender roles. While this verse addresses cultural norms from nearly two millennia ago, modern social science may explore the dynamics of equality, partnership, and mutual respect within relationships, and how these factors contribute to overall well-being.

Commentaries

Commentators such as Matthew Henry underscore the importance of a meek and quiet spirit, which he states is an ornament of great price. John Calvin focuses on the aspect of subjection, explaining it as an ordinance of God, but also notes that this does not mean women are inferior. More contemporary commentators discuss the balance between cultural context of the time and the universal principles that can be applied today, highlighting the importance of inner qualities and mutual respect in marriages.