What does Proverbs 25:22 mean?

This completes the teaching begun in the prior verse (Proverbs 25:21). Solomon (Proverbs 25:1) notes it's more effective to show kindness to an enemy than to seek revenge. Samson's feud with the Philistines illustrates the escalating spiral of violence produced by revenge (Judges 15:3, 6–8, 10–11, 15). This proverb's advice would stop the never-ending cycle of human vengeance. Spiritually, it also works as a more effective "attack" on an enemy. Responding with revenge gives others reason to think they were justified in their first actions. Responding with loving kindness inspires self-reflection, and possibly a healthy sense of shame. Paul refers to this statement in Romans 12:20.

The reference to burning coals is not a suggestion about pain or even punishment. An ancient Egyptian ritual involved carrying a pan of burning coals on the head as a sign of repentance. Kind acts, towards the very person who has harmed us, are intended to encourage repentance. This teaching indicates that God will bless those who treat their enemies kindly. That not only comes by avoiding further retaliation, and by encouraging unity, but it also reflects someone who correctly understands their personal need for forgiveness (Matthew 6:14–15). It is significant that God showed His love to us when we were His enemies: by giving His Son for us (Romans 5:8).