What does Proverbs 25:21 mean?
ESV: If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink,
NIV: If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink.
NASB: If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; And if he is thirsty, give him water to drink;
CSB: If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink,
NLT: If your enemies are hungry, give them food to eat. If they are thirsty, give them water to drink.
KJV: If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:
NKJV: If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat; And if he is thirsty, give him water to drink;
Verse Commentary:
This is the first half of a proverb (Proverbs 25:22) quoted in the New Testament by Paul (Romans 12:20). Human nature instinctively seeks revenge; this leads to an endless cycle of escalating violence. A more effective strategy is to show compassion and love for those who wrong us. That not only diffuses their need for retaliation, but it also contrasts strongly with their inappropriately behavior. This can lead to self-reflection and a change of heart (Matthew 5:39). This does not recommend attempting to "do good" with malicious intent. Rather, we do good simply because we are called to do so; leaving vengeance to God is wise because He is much more capable than we are (Deuteronomy 32:35).
Literal application of this verse is not wrong, but the idea applies to more than simply offering bread and water. It is Christlike to respond to ill-treatment with kindness. The apostle Peter reminds us that when Jesus was reviled, "he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly" (1 Peter 2:23). The command to "love your neighbor as yourself" (Leviticus 19:18; Mark 12:31) applies not only to those who are easy to love but also to those who harm us.
The English phrase "kill them with kindness" is related to this proverb. However, that expression implies a deliberate intent to create misery or angst. Though the following verse refers to "burning coals," the context is internal repentance, not punishment.
Verse Context:
Proverbs 25:15–28 provides sound counsel about personal relationships. Most of the teachings involve the best way to interact with others, whether they are friends, enemies, spouses, or strangers. Also included are suggestions about self-control.
Chapter Summary:
This chapter includes more statements from Solomon, copied by scribes of King Hezekiah many years later. The first section speaks about the risks of arrogance. The next gives comparisons which teach spiritual lessons. The last segment teaches about relationships, reputation, and self-control.
Chapter Context:
Chapter 25 begins to relate more wise statements from Solomon. Depending on where they are divided or combined, these amount to around one hundred portions of godly wisdom. These were compiled and added about 250 years after Solomon's reign by men under the direction of King Hezekiah. The phrasing used in verse 1 suggests these were copied from other records into the scrolls associated with the prior proverbs. This collection runs through the end of chapter 29.
Book Summary:
Proverbs is best understood in context with the books of Ecclesiastes and Job. In Proverbs, “wisdom” is given in short, simple, general terms. Ecclesiastes represents wisdom based on observation and experience. This often shows how the general principles of the book of Proverbs don’t apply in absolutely every circumstance. Job represents wisdom based on the experience of suffering and injustice. All three come to the conclusion that God does indeed know best, and the most sensible course of action is to follow His will.
Accessed 5/7/2024 4:23:19 AM
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Text from ESV, NIV, NASB, CSB, NLT, KJV, NKJV © Copyright respective owners, used by permission.
