Hereunto
Definition and Usage
The word "hereunto" is an archaic English term meaning "to this," "for this purpose," or "with a view to this." While common in the English of the early 1600s when the King James Version was translated, it has largely fallen out of modern usage. Understanding its meaning helps Bible readers grasp the full force of the passages where it appears.
Hereunto in 1 Peter 2:21
The most significant use of "hereunto" occurs in 1 Peter 2:21 (KJV): "For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps." The Greek phrase behind "hereunto" is eis touto, meaning "unto this" or "for this very thing."
Peter is writing to Christians who were experiencing persecution and unjust treatment. In the preceding verses, he addresses servants suffering under harsh masters (1 Peter 2:18-20), affirming that enduring unjust suffering with patience is commendable before God. The word "hereunto" then makes a striking declaration: this patient endurance is not merely admirable — it is the very purpose for which believers are called.
The Context of Suffering
Peter's letter was written to scattered Christian communities in Asia Minor who faced social ostracism and persecution for their faith (1 Peter 1:6-7). The concept of being called to suffer was radical — and remains so. Peter frames suffering not as an accident or punishment but as a participation in the pattern Christ established. Just as Christ suffered unjustly and responded without retaliation (1 Peter 2:22-23), believers are called to the same response.
This teaching echoes Jesus' own words that his followers would face tribulation in the world (John 16:33) and that they should take up their cross daily (Luke 9:23).
Hereunto in Ecclesiastes 2:25
A secondary use of "hereunto" appears in the KJV of Ecclesiastes 2:25: "For who can eat, or who else can hasten hereunto, more than I?" Here the word connects to the Preacher's reflection on the futility of human labor and the question of who can truly enjoy life's pleasures apart from God. Modern translations render this quite differently — the ESV reads "who can have enjoyment" — showing that the underlying Hebrew text is difficult and debated.
The Calling of Believers
The theological weight of "hereunto" in 1 Peter 2:21 lies in the word "called." Throughout the New Testament, calling describes God's purposeful invitation to salvation and a transformed life (Romans 8:28-30; Ephesians 4:1). Peter uses this concept to reframe suffering: it is not random misfortune but part of God's calling. Christ's suffering was purposeful, and the believer's suffering, when endured faithfully, participates in that same purposeful pattern.
From Archaic Word to Living Truth
While "hereunto" may sound antiquated, the truth it conveys in 1 Peter 2:21 remains powerfully relevant. Modern translations render it as "to this you have been called" (ESV, NIV), making the meaning accessible while preserving the force of Peter's declaration that patient endurance in suffering is central to the Christian calling.
Biblical Context
Hereunto appears in the KJV in 1 Peter 2:21, where it introduces the concept that believers are called to follow Christ's example of patient suffering. It also appears in Ecclesiastes 2:25 in the context of the Preacher's reflections on human enjoyment. The 1 Peter passage is part of a broader section addressing Christian conduct under persecution.
Theological Significance
The word 'hereunto' in 1 Peter 2:21 carries profound theological weight, declaring that suffering patiently is part of the believer's divine calling. It connects Christ's redemptive suffering with the Christian's daily experience, teaching that faithful endurance is not optional but central to following Jesus. This transforms suffering from meaningless hardship into purposeful participation in Christ's pattern.
Historical Background
The word 'hereunto' was standard English in 1611 when the KJV was published. The Greek phrase it translates (eis touto) was a common purposive expression in Koine Greek. First Peter was written to persecuted Christians in Roman Asia Minor (modern Turkey), where social pressure and occasional official persecution made the question of suffering a daily reality for early believers.