Contradiction with Proverbs 28:26
2 Chronicles 33:12 suggests seeking the Lord in distress which implies trust in God, whereas Proverbs 28:26 suggests those who trust in their own heart are fools, highlighting a contrast between self-reliance and divine reliance.
Proverbs 28:26: He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:7
2 Chronicles 33:12 depicts a sinner reaching out to God, whereas Matthew 7:7 generally assures that seekers will find, potentially contradicting the idea of ignoring those who previously rejected God.
Matthew 7:7: Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:
Contradiction with Isaiah 55:6-7
2 Chronicles 33:12 shows God being found in distress, while Isaiah 55:6-7 advises seeking God while He may be found, implying a limitation of this grace that is not evident in Manasseh’s example.
Isaiah 55:6-7: Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:
Contradiction with Proverbs 1:28
2 Chronicles 33:12 provides an example of God’s mercy in hearing Manasseh’s plea, whereas Proverbs 1:28 warns of not being answered when they call if wisdom is not initially embraced.
Proverbs 1:28: Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me:
Contradiction with James 4:8
2 Chronicles 33:12 notes that Manasseh sought the Lord and was saved, but James 4:8 implies a need for sinners to first purify themselves as they draw near to God, suggesting a contrasting process.
James 4:8: Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse [your] hands, [ye] sinners; and purify [your] hearts, [ye] double minded.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in this verse could be about the idea of forgiveness. Some might see a conflict between the punishment of wrongdoing and the possibility of being forgiven through sincere repentance. People might question how fairness and justice are upheld if someone can simply be forgiven after making terrible mistakes. This tension between justice and mercy can be seen as a contradiction.