Contradiction with Proverbs 29:2
While 2 Samuel 23:3 emphasizes the righteousness of rulers, Proverbs 29:2 suggests that not all rulers are righteous and that the people suffer under wicked ones.
Proverbs 29:2: When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn. [in...: or, increased]
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 8:9
This verse notes that there are times when a man rules over another to his own hurt, indicating that not all ruling is done justly or in the fear of God.
Ecclesiastes 8:9: All this have I seen, and applied my heart unto every work that is done under the sun: [there is] a time wherein one man ruleth over another to his own hurt.
Contradiction with Ezekiel 34:2
It contrasts with 2 Samuel 23:3 by condemning the shepherds (leaders) of Israel who are not ruling justly, nor are they caring for their people appropriately.
Ezekiel 34:2: Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD unto the shepherds; Woe [be] to the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! should not the shepherds feed the flocks?
Contradiction with Hosea 8:4
This verse implies that some kings were set up and rulers appointed without God's approval, contradicting the ideal of God-fearing rulers highlighted in 2 Samuel 23:3.
Hosea 8:4: They have set up kings, but not by me: they have made princes, and I knew [it] not: of their silver and their gold have they made them idols, that they may be cut off.
Paradox #1
The verse speaks about the importance of ruling justly and in the fear of God. A potential contradiction could arise from instances in the Bible where leaders, including some who were considered righteous, acted in ways that could be seen as unjust or violent. This could create a tension between the ideal of just leadership and some of the actions described elsewhere in the texts.