Proverbs 25:21

21 If thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him 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 The way of the wicked and the foot of the transgressor shall perish in an evil day.

20 As vinegar is bad for a sore, so trouble befalling the body afflicts the heart. As a moth in a garment, and a worm in wood, so the grief of a man hurts the heart.

21 If thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink;

22 for so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head, and the Lord shall reward thee good.

23 The north wind raises clouds; so an impudent face provokes the tongue.