Proverbs 25:21

If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:

Proverbs 25:21 (KJV)

Context

The Book of Proverbs is a collection of wisdom literature in the Old Testament. It contains practical and moral teachings that guide wise living. This verse is part of a series of proverbs attributed to King Solomon. In the ancient Near East, bread and water were the basic staples of daily life, so the command is direct and practical: meet the real physical need of an enemy.

Meaning

“If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat” calls for tangible action, not just a feeling of goodwill. “And if he be thirsty, give him water to drink” repeats the same idea with another essential need. The verse does not ask us to pretend the enmity does not exist. Instead, it commands a costly, concrete response that treats the enemy as a fellow human being with basic needs.

This teaching challenges the natural instinct to retaliate. It does not promise that the enemy will change or that reconciliation will follow. The motivation is obedience to God and trust in His justice, not manipulation of the enemy’s response. The following verse, Proverbs 25:22, explains that such kindness is like heaping burning coals on the enemy’s head, and that the Lord will reward the one who does this. The exact nature of that reward is not specified, but God sees the act and will repay it.

Biblical connections

This wisdom saying aligns with the broader biblical ethic of overcoming evil with good. Jesus taught His followers to love their enemies and to pray for those who persecute them (Matthew 5:44). God Himself shows love and mercy even to those who rebel against Him (Matthew 5:45). When we extend grace to an enemy, we reflect God’s character and display His love in our actions.

Application

• Choosing kindness over retaliation: Instead of seeking revenge or returning evil for evil, respond to animosity with acts of kindness. This may involve helping those who have harmed us or going the extra mile to meet their needs.

• Praying for our enemies: Jesus taught us to pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44). We can intercede on behalf of our adversaries, asking God to bless them, change their hearts, and lead them to righteousness.

• Extending forgiveness: Offering bread and water can also symbolize extending forgiveness and reconciliation. We can release grudges and bitterness and pursue peace whenever possible.

Reflection

This verse calls us to a radical, grace-filled response that goes against our natural feelings. It is a wisdom saying, not a promise of immediate reconciliation or a guarantee of the enemy’s change of heart. The goal is to do good and to reflect the character of God, leaving vengeance in His hands. By meeting the needs of those who oppose us, we demonstrate that God’s love is stronger than human hostility.