View All Biblical Expressions

Heap coals of fire on the head

Here’s what it means

Kindness toward an enemy may awaken shame and repentance while leaving judgment to God.

Why the Bible says it this way

The writer uses a picture to explain one thing by describing it as another.

A helpful detail: The ancient background is debated. The safe point is to overcome evil with practical good, not to use kindness as disguised revenge.

Where it appears