Proverbs 25:21 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 25:21 mean?

Proverbs 25:21 teaches that if someone you consider an enemy is in need—hungry or thirsty—you should give them food and water. The verse encourages showing kindness even to those who oppose you, rather than seeking revenge or holding back help.

In this proverb, the writer (traditionally Solomon, speaking as a wise teacher) addresses anyone listening, urging them to respond to hostility with generosity. The setting assumes a real-life situation where a person might encounter an adversary in distress. The verse’s plain sense is about practical, everyday actions: meeting basic needs for anyone, even those you might not get along with.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 25:21

• The word for "enemy" is שָׂנֵא (śanē’), which means someone who hates or opposes you. The verse does not limit kindness to friends or neutral parties but extends it to those with whom you have conflict.
• "Hungry" is רָעֵב (ra‘ēv), meaning someone lacking food. The focus is on a real, physical need, not just a general wish for well-being.
• "Bread" is לֶחֶם (lechem), the basic staple food, emphasizing meeting fundamental needs rather than offering luxury.
• "Thirsty" is צָמֵא (tsāmē’), and "water" is מַיִם (mayim), again pointing to essential needs. The verse is about concrete, tangible help, not just good intentions.

Why Proverbs 25:21 matters

• Proverbs 25:21 corrects the common instinct to repay hostility with hostility, showing that wisdom calls for compassion even toward adversaries.
• The verse highlights that kindness is not limited by personal feelings or relationships; it is a principle to be practiced universally.
• This teaching connects to a broader biblical theme of overcoming evil with good and sets the stage for similar teachings found later in the Bible, such as in the teachings of Jesus.