Can Kindness to Enemies and Not Taking Joy in Their Downfall Coexist?
In this article, you will learn how Proverbs 24:17 contradicts Proverbs 25:21-22, Matthew 5:44, Romans 12:20 and Exodus 23:4-5. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
Throughout the Bible, we find different teachings about how to treat those who consider themselves our enemies. In Proverbs 24:17, Solomon advises against rejoicing when an enemy stumbles. This verse advocates maintaining a neutral or passive stance, suggesting that we should not find joy in the misfortunes of those who oppose us. It emphasizes restraint and encourages a kind of quiet dignity.
However, other scriptural references challenge us to take a more active approach. Proverbs 25:21-22 takes kindness to the next level by instructing us to feed our enemies if they are hungry, offering a proactive form of benevolence. This suggests going beyond simply not celebrating their downfalls, encouraging us to show positive support even when it might be least anticipated.
Similarly, in Matthew 5:44, Jesus urges us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. This is a step further, promoting an active form of love rather than just a passive refusal to rejoice over their hardships. Jesus' message underscores a deep, unconditional form of love, encouraging us to seek the well-being of those who wrong us.
Romans 12:20 echoes this sentiment of proactive kindness, repeating the call to feed an enemy in need. It aligns closely with the instructions given in Proverbs 25, but within the broader context of Christian love.
Even in the Old Testament, we find similar encouragement in Exodus 23:4-5, where helping an enemy with their troubled property is encouraged. This again presents a more hands-on form of goodness.
Are these teachings at odds, or do they form a more holistic view? While they might seem contradictory at first, these verses challenge us to transform our attitudes into actions, turning restraint into acts of kindness that reach beyond simple non-malice.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Proverbs 24:17 | Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth: |
| 2. | Proverbs 25:21-22 | If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink: |
| 3. | Matthew 5:44 | But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; |
| 4. | Romans 12:20 | Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. |
| 5. | Exodus 23:4-5 | If thou meet thine enemy's ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again. |