Proverbs 25:21

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

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 Like a broken tooth or a foot out of joint is confidence in a faithless man in time of trouble.

20 Like one who removes a garment on a cold day or vinegar poured on a wound is one who sings songs to a heavy heart.

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

22 For in so doing, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you.

23 As the north wind brings forth rain, so a backbiting tongue brings angry looks.