Proverbs 25:21
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
Footnotes
- 25:21–22 A memorable statement of humanity and moderation; such sentiments could be occasionally found even outside the Bible, e.g., “It is better to bless someone than to do harm to one who has insulted you” (Egyptian Papyrus Insinger). Cf. Ex 23:4 and Lv 19:17–18. Human beings should not take it upon themselves to exact vengeance, leaving it rather in God’s hands. This saying has in view an enemy’s vulnerability in time of need, in this case extreme hunger and thirst; such a need should not be an occasion for revenge. The motive for restraining oneself is to allow God’s justice to take its own course, as in 20:22 and 24:17–19. Live coals: either remorse and embarrassment for the harm done, or increased punishment for refusing reconciliation. Cf. Mt 5:44. Rom 12:20 cites the Greek version and interprets it, “Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good.”
Proverbs 25:21
New International Version
21 If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat;
if he is thirsty, give him water to drink.
Romans 12:20-21
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
20 Rather, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals upon his head.”(A) 21 Do not be conquered by evil but conquer evil with good.
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Romans 12:20-21
New International Version
20 On the contrary:
“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”[a](A)
21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Footnotes
- Romans 12:20 Prov. 25:21,22
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