Proverbs 20:22

“(Compare Psa 27:14; Rom 12:17-19).”

“God’s awarding to everyone according to his works, is the true check to the spirit of vindictiveness (compare Romans 12:17, Romans 12:19). Note that man is not told to wait on the Lord in expectation of seeing vengeance on his enemies, but “He shall save thee.” The difference of the two hopes, in their effect upon the man’s character, is incalculable. return to 'Top of Page'”

“20:22 See also Rom 12:17-21.”

“I: Pro 17:13, Pro 24:29; Deu 32:35; Rom 12:17-19; Th1 5:15; Pe1 3:9 wait: Sa2 16:12; Psa 27:14, Psa 37:34; Isa 40:31; Lam 3:25, Lam 3:26; Pe1 2:23, Pe1 4:19 Proverbs 20:23”

“22 Say not: I will avenge the evil; Hope in Jahve, so will He help thee. Men ought always to act toward their neighbours according to the law of love, and not according to the jus talionis, Pro 24:29; they ought not only, by requiting good with evil ( Pro 16:13; Psa 7:5, Psa 35:12), not to transgress this law of requital, but they ought to surpass it, by also recompensing not evil with evil (vid., regarding שׁלּם, and synon. to Pro 17:13); and that is what the proverb means, for 22b supposes injustice suffered, which might stir up a spirit of revenge. It does not, however, say that men ought to commit the taking of vengeance to God; but, in the sense of Rom 12:17-19; Pe1 3:9, that,…”