Contradiction with 2 Kings 20:13
In 2 Kings 20:13, Hezekiah shows all his treasures to the Babylonian envoy, which suggests a lack of caution or discernment. This contradicts the wisdom proverb in Proverbs 11:12, which advises against despising one's neighbor and implies discretion.
2 Kings 20:13: And Hezekiah hearkened unto them, and shewed them all the house of his precious things, the silver, and the gold, and the spices, and the precious ointment, and [all] the house of his armour, and all that was found in his treasures: there was nothing in his house, nor in all his dominion, that Hezekiah shewed them not. [precious things: or, spicery] [armour: or, jewels: Heb. vessels]
Contradiction with Proverbs 18:2
Proverbs 18:2 speaks of a fool having no delight in understanding, but only in revealing his own mind. This contradicts Hezekiah's action in 2 Kings 20:12, as his openness with the Babylonian envoy can be seen as indiscreet rather than understanding.
Proverbs 18:2: A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may discover itself.
Contradiction with Isaiah 39:2
This verse parallels 2 Kings 20:13, where Isaiah reprimands Hezekiah for his lack of forethought, leading to future Babylonian conquest. This sequence contradicts the idea of acting with prudence or foresight.
Isaiah 39:2: And Hezekiah was glad of them, and shewed them the house of his precious things, the silver, and the gold, and the spices, and the precious ointment, and all the house of his armour, and all that was found in his treasures: there was nothing in his house, nor in all his dominion, that Hezekiah shewed them not. [precious things: or, spicery] [armour: or, jewels: Heb. vessels, or, instruments]
Paradox #1
One contradiction related to this verse concerns the timing and identity of the Babylonian king mentioned. In some accounts, the ruler, Merodach-Baladan, is known to have reigned earlier than the events described here. This raises questions about the historical accuracy of the timeline and whether the correspondence described could have actually taken place during his rule.