Proverbs 25:22

22 for you will heap coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.^[a]

Proverbs 25:22 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 25:22

For thou shall heap coals of fire upon his head
Not to increase his punishment and damnation, the more aggravated by kindness shown him; but to bring him by such means to a sense of former injuries, and to shame for them, repentance of them, and love of the person injured, and carefulness for the future of doing him any further wrong; and the Lord shall reward thee:
with good things, for all the good done to thine enemy, whether it has the desired effect on him or not; or whether he rewards thee or not; see ( Romans 12:20 Romans 12:21 ) .

Proverbs 25:22 In-Context

20 Singing songs to a troubled heart is like taking off clothing on a cold day, or like [pouring] vinegar on soda.

21 If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink;

22 for you will heap coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.

23 The north wind produces rain, and a backbiting tongue, angry looks.

24 Better to live on the corner of a roof than in a house shared with a nagging wife.

Footnotes

• [a]. Mt 5:44; Rm 12:20