E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Coals of Fire.
To heap coals of fire on the head of a foe. To melt down his animosity by deeds of kindness.
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“If thine enemy he hungry, give him bread to eat, and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink, for thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head.” Prov. xxv. 21, 22.
