Proverbs 25:21

21 If your enemies are hungry, give them bread to eat; and if they are thirsty, give them 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 bad tooth or a lame foot is trust in a faithless person in time of trouble.

20 Like vinegar on a wound is one who sings songs to a heavy heart. Like a moth in clothing or a worm in wood, sorrow gnaws at the human heart.

21 If your enemies are hungry, give them bread to eat; and if they are thirsty, give them water to drink;

22 for you will heap coals of fire on their heads, and the Lord will reward you.

23 The north wind produces rain, and a backbiting tongue, angry looks.