Proverbs 25:21

21 If thy enemy be hungry, give him to eat: if he thirst, 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 To trust in an unfaithful man in the time of trouble, is like a rotten tooth, and weary foot,

20 And one that looseth his garment in cold weather. As vinegar upon nitre, so is he that singeth songs to a very evil heart. As a moth doth by a garment, and a worm by the wood: so the sadness of a man consumeth the heart.

21 If thy enemy be hungry, give him to eat: if he thirst, give him water to drink:

22 For thou shalt heap hot coals upon his head, and the Lord will reward thee.

23 The north wind driveth away rain, as doth a sad countenance a backbiting tongue.