Proverbs 25:22

22 For in so doing, you will heap burning coals on his head, ^[a] and the 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 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.

24 Better to live on a corner of the roof than to share a house with a quarrelsome wife.

Footnotes

• [a]. LXX; Hebrew For you will heap burning coals on his head; cited in Romans 12:20