Peter would have husbands know their wives (the Greek has literally “according to knowledge”). Knowing your wife implies investing time and attention upon her (to get to know the “hidden person of the heart,” 1 Peter 3:4; see also Genesis 4:1). Though the theme of 1 Peter 2:11 – 3:7 revolves around the need to “be subject,” Peter does not tell the husband to submit to his wife; he instead tells him to “live with her according to knowledge,” an instruction that requires the husband to take the principle of subjection and apply it to his marriage. The fruit of his efforts to know her needs and moods will dictate how he interacts with her. Such respect for her will be seen in his community as honourable conduct, that is, good deeds (1 Peter 2:12).
7 Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.