Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 7:3
This verse states that sorrow is better than laughter, which contradicts the joy expressed in 2 Corinthians 7:9 over the repentance that came from sorrow.
Ecclesiastes 7:3: Sorrow [is] better than laughter: for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made better. [Sorrow: or, Anger]
Contradiction with Proverbs 17:22
This verse suggests a merry heart does good like medicine, implying that joy, not sorrow, is beneficial, contrasting with the joy over sorrow leading to repentance in 2 Corinthians 7:9.
Proverbs 17:22: A merry heart doeth good [like] a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones. [like: or, to]
Contradiction with 1 Thessalonians 4:13
This verse advises believers not to grieve like those who have no hope, contrasting with the positive outcome of sorrow mentioned in 2 Corinthians 7:9.
1 Thessalonians 4:13: But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.
Contradiction with Proverbs 14:13
This verse states that even in laughter the heart may ache, suggesting that not all joy (like that in 2 Corinthians 7:9) comes from sorrow.
Proverbs 14:13: Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful; and the end of that mirth [is] heaviness.
Contradiction with James 4:9
This verse encourages turning laughter into mourning and joy to heaviness, which could contradict the positive view of repentance-related sorrow in 2 Corinthians 7:9 by portraying mourning as necessary.
James 4:9: Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and [your] joy to heaviness.
Paradox #1
The contradiction or conflict in 2 Corinthians 7:9 could arise from differing interpretations of what it means to feel "sorrow" or "regret." Some might see this verse as promoting guilt or negative feelings, which could be viewed as harmful or inconsistent with the message of love and forgiveness. Others might interpret the same verse as encouraging a positive transformation through reflection, which doesn't seem contradictory. The potential conflict is in how one perceives the emotional response encouraged by the text.