If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:
If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink.
The writer is teaching that we should show kindness and meet the basic needs of even those who oppose us.
📚 Historical Context
In the time of King Solomon, proverbs were used to impart practical wisdom for daily living, drawing from everyday experiences and moral teachings in ancient Israel. This particular verse is part of a collection compiled during the reign of King Hezekiah, which highlights ethical behavior even toward enemies, reflecting the broader wisdom tradition in the Old Testament. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, acts of kindness to foes were seen as a strategic and godly way to promote peace and justice.
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