What does 1 Peter 3:3 mean?
"Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;" - 1 Peter 3:3
1 Peter 3:3 (KJV) states: "Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel."
In this verse, Peter is addressing the issue of external appearance and the tendency for people to place undue importance on their physical appearance and material possessions, rather than cultivating inner beauty and character. He is encouraging believers to focus on the state of their hearts rather than their outward appearance.
The verse starts with the word "Whose," referring to women, as the previous verses discuss the behavior of wives and the importance of a gentle and quiet spirit. It is important to understand the context of the verse in order to fully grasp its meaning. Peter is not saying that it is wrong for women to care about their appearance, but rather, he is cautioning against prioritizing external beauty over internal qualities.
The use of the word "adorning" implies the act of decorating or beautifying oneself. Peter is instructing women not to let their primary focus be on their outward appearance, specifically mentioning the cultural customs of plaiting hair, wearing gold, and putting on apparel. In ancient times, these were often symbols of wealth and status. Peter is cautioning against the temptation to find one's identity and worth in material possessions.
It is important to note that Peter's words are not limited to women, nor are they solely about physical adornment. The principles conveyed in this verse are applicable to all believers, regardless of gender. The heart of the matter is not the specific outward adornments mentioned, but the underlying attitude of the heart.
The underlying theme of this verse is the importance of inner beauty and character. Peter is highlighting the eternal value of a gentle and peaceful spirit, which he mentioned in the preceding verses. This echoes the biblical truth that God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7) and values inward character over outward appearance.
This verse also addresses the issue of misplaced priorities. In a society that often equates beauty and possessions with worth and success, Peter's words serve as a reminder that true beauty is found in the qualities of kindness, humility, and love. The apostle Paul echoes similar sentiments in 1 Timothy 2:9-10, where he encourages women to adorn themselves with good works, rather than external adornments.
The symbolism in this verse lies in the contrast between outward adornment and internal qualities. Plaiting the hair, wearing gold, and putting on of apparel are symbolic of the transient and perishable nature of material possessions. In contrast, the beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit reflects the enduring and precious nature of inner virtues. This serves as a powerful reminder of the value that God places on the inward transformation of the heart.
In conclusion, 1 Peter 3:3 serves as a poignant reminder for believers to prioritize inner beauty and character over external appearance and material possessions. The verse encourages humility, contentment, and a focus on cultivating a gentle and peaceful spirit. It challenges us to align our priorities with God's values and to seek the beauty that comes from a transformed heart. May we heed Peter's words and be mindful of where we place our emphasis, recognizing that true beauty is found in the inward qualities that reflect the character of Christ.
Have questions about 1 Peter 3:3?
Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.
Get Our Apps
1 Peter 3:3 Artwork
1 Peter 3:3 - "Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;"
1 Peter3:3-4
"Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;" - 1 Peter 3:3
I Peter 1:3
1 Peter 2:3 - "If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious."
1 Peter 3:2 - "While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear."
1 Peter 3:13 - "And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?"
1 Peter 3:19 - "By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison;"
1 Peter 5:3 - "Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock."
1 Peter 3:14 - "But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;"
1 Peter 3:17 - "For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing."
Acts 3:1 - "Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour."
1 Peter 3:11 - "Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it."
Acts 3:3 - "Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms."
1 Peter 3:8 - "Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:"
1 Peter 3:1 - "Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives;"
1 Peter 3:22 - "Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him."
2 Peter 3:3 - "Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts,"
1 Peter 3:9 - "Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing."
1 Peter 3:12 - "For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil."
"If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious." - 1 Peter 2:3
Mark 3:16 - "And Simon he surnamed Peter;"
1 Peter 3:4 - "But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price."
1 Peter 3:16 - "Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ."
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead," - 1 Peter 1:3
1 Peter 3:6 - "Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement."
1 Peter 3:10 - "For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:"
1 Peter 3:5 - "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:"
"While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear." - 1 Peter 3:2
1 Peter 3:15 - "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:"