Contradiction with Proverbs 31:30
Amos 4:1 criticizes the women of Bashan for material indulgence and oppression, while Proverbs 31:30 praises a woman who fears the Lord over physical beauty.
Proverbs 31:30: Favour [is] deceitful, and beauty [is] vain: [but] a woman [that] feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
Contradiction with 1 Peter 3:3-4
Amos 4:1 rebukes the women for their outward opulence, whereas 1 Peter 3:3-4 emphasizes inner beauty and a gentle spirit.
1 Peter 3:3-4: Whose adorning let it not be that outward [adorning] of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel;
Contradiction with Isaiah 3:16-17
Isaiah condemns the proud daughters of Zion similarly, contradicting the implied acceptance of their behavior in Amos 4:1 by pointing towards divine retribution.
Isaiah 3:16-17: Moreover the LORD saith, Because the daughters of Zion are haughty, and walk with stretched forth necks and wanton eyes, walking and mincing [as] they go, and making a tinkling with their feet: [wanton...: Heb. deceiving with their eyes] [mincing: or, tripping nicely]
Contradiction with Proverbs 11:22
The indulgence criticized in Amos 4:1 is contrasted with this proverb, which likens a beautiful woman without discretion to a gold ring in a pig's snout.
Proverbs 11:22: [As] a jewel of gold in a swine's snout, [so is] a fair woman which is without discretion. [is without: Heb. departeth from]
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 2:9-10
The lavish lifestyle condemned in Amos 4:1 contrasts with these verses urging women to dress modestly and do good works.
1 Timothy 2:9-10: In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; [broided: or, plaited]
Paradox #1
Amos 4:1 criticizes wealthy women of Samaria for oppressing the poor and demanding luxury. This could be seen as conflicting with other biblical teachings that honor women or encourage compassion and generosity. It might seem harsh or inconsistent with a message of love and kindness found elsewhere in the Bible.
Paradox #2
Amos 4:1 refers to wealthy women of Samaria as "cows of Bashan," criticizing their indulgence and mistreatment of the poor. The potential contradiction or conflict arises from historical and cultural contexts. Ancient cultures often had differing views on wealth, gender roles, and social justice, which may clash with the message here. Additionally, this verse reflects specific socio-economic conditions in ancient Israel that might not align with other biblical teachings promoting mutual care and respect.
Paradox #3
Amos 4:1 expresses criticism towards a group for their oppression and selfishness. The contradiction might arise if the actions described in the verse contradict the broader biblical teachings of compassion and justice. If people who claim to uphold these values engage in such behaviors, it can seem inconsistent with the moral principles they are supposed to follow.