Proverbs 25:22

22 For you will heap burning coals on his head, And ¹the LORD will reward you.

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 Like one who takes off a garment on a cold day, or like vinegar on soda, Is he who sings songs to a troubled heart.

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 burning coals on his head, And the LORD will reward you.

23 The north wind brings forth rain, And a backbiting tongue, an angry countenance.

24 It is better to live in a corner of the roof Than in a house shared with a contentious woman.

Cross References

• 1. 2 Samuel 16:12; Matthew 6:4, 6

Footnotes

• [a]. Lit "snatch up"