Proverbs 25:21

21 If your enemy [is] hungry, feed him bread, and if thirsty, let him drink 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 A bad tooth and a lame foot [is] the trust of a faithless person {in a time} of trouble.

20 [Like] one who removes a garment on a cold day, [or like] vinegar on natron, [is] he who sings songs to a heavy heart.

21 If your enemy [is] hungry, feed him bread, and if thirsty, let him drink water.

22 For coals of fire you will heap upon his head, and Yahweh will reward you.

23 The wind of the north produces rain, and a backbiting tongue, angry faces.