Contradiction with 1 Samuel 18:9
This verse shows Saul's jealousy, which contradicts the celebratory tone in 1 Samuel 18:7.
1 Samuel 18:9: And Saul eyed David from that day and forward.
Contradiction with 2 Samuel 1:23
This verse praises both Saul and Jonathan together, contrasting the favoritism shown to David in 1 Samuel 18:7.
2 Samuel 1:23: Saul and Jonathan [were] lovely and pleasant in their lives, and in their death they were not divided: they were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions. [pleasant: or, sweet]
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 9:11
Here it suggests that success is not always to the swift or strong, which contradicts the implication of David's superiority in 1 Samuel 18:7.
Ecclesiastes 9:11: I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race [is] not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.
Contradiction with Romans 12:3
This verse advises not to think of oneself more highly than one ought, contrasting the exaltation of David over Saul in 1 Samuel 18:7.
Romans 12:3: For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. [soberly: Gr. to sobriety]
Contradiction with Matthew 23:12
Suggests humility and lifting those who humble themselves, in contrast to praising David's superior achievements over Saul's in 1 Samuel 18:7.
Matthew 23:12: And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.
Paradox #1
The conflict in 1 Samuel 18:7 could arise from the tension between the praise given to David and the jealousy it sparks in Saul. While the verse highlights David's successes, it sets the stage for Saul's growing envy and hostility, which could contrast with the biblical call to love and support one another. This tension between human emotions and divine virtues can be seen as inconsistent with the ideal relationships the Bible encourages.
Paradox #2
1 Samuel 18:7 could be seen as showing a contradiction in terms of how it might promote jealousy and rivalry. In this context, the verse highlights praise for one individual over another, which could lead to feelings of envy and conflict between them, potentially contradicting messages of unity and love found elsewhere in the Bible.
Paradox #3
The contradiction could relate to how the women in the verse attribute different numbers of victories or achievements to Saul and David. This creates a comparison that can lead to a perception of inconsistency in their respective successes.