Proverbs 25:21

21 If your hater is in need of food, give him bread; and if he is in need of drink, give him water:

Proverbs 25:21 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 25:21

If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat
Which includes all manner of food; whatever persons may have in their houses, that they should bring out and feed the hungry with, even though an enemy; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink;
which was what was usually and in common drank in those countries. These two, bread and water, take in all the necessaries of life; and giving them is expressive of all acts of beneficence and humanity to be performed to enemies; see ( 2 Kings 6:22 ) ; or "drink to him", so Pagninus and Montanus; which is still more expressive of respect and kindness.

Proverbs 25:21 In-Context

19 Putting one's faith in a false man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth and a shaking foot.

20 Like one who takes off clothing in cold weather and like acid on a wound, is he who makes melody to a sad heart.

21 If your hater is in need of food, give him bread; and if he is in need of drink, give him water:

22 For so you will put coals of fire on his head, and the Lord will give you your reward.

23 As the north wind gives birth to rain, so is an angry face caused by a tongue saying evil secretly.