Can Consistent Goodness Truly Exist?
In this article, you will learn how Proverbs 31:12 contradicts Genesis 6:5, Jeremiah 17:9, Romans 3:10 and Ecclesiastes 7:20. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The notion of a consistently good and virtuous life, as portrayed in Proverbs 31:12, paints the picture of an ideal spouse—a caring, loving individual who only does good to their partner. This idea is appealing and provides a standard for relationships. However, when stacked against other biblical teachings, one might wonder: Is such unerring goodness truly attainable?
In Genesis 6:5, the contrast is stark. Here, it's mentioned that the imagination of the thoughts of man's heart was only evil continually. This suggests an inherent tendency towards wrongdoings—an internal struggle against perpetually doing good. Imagine trying to paint a white wall, knowing that there's a persistent, invisible force trying to splash black paint over it. The innate human battle against darker inclinations makes continuous virtue seem almost unrealistic.
Jeremiah 17:9 adds another layer to this complexity, describing the heart as deceitful above all things. This idea implies that human desires and inclinations are inherently unreliable. Even the most well-intentioned person may falter, guided by deceptive emotions or misconceptions. It’s akin to navigating with a compass that frequently changes its magnetic north; you think you're on the right path, but you may inadvertently veer off course.
Romans 3:10 further reiterates that there is none righteous, no, not one. This verse suggests a universal fallibility among humans, challenging the idea of perpetual goodness. Similarly, Ecclesiastes 7:20 underscores this notion by emphasizing that there isn’t a just man who does good and sins not. It's a humbling reminder that imperfection is part of the human condition.
These verses collectively question whether it is feasible to maintain perfect goodness. While Proverbs 31:12 sets an aspirational goal, the contradictions highlight that embracing one's imperfections might be a more realistic pursuit, encouraging growth and humility. Can humans truly sustain constant goodness, or do these contradictions suggest a more nuanced approach to virtue?
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Proverbs 31:12 | She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. |
| 2. | Genesis 6:5 | And GOD saw that the wickedness of man [was] great in the earth, and [that] every imagination of the thoughts of his heart [was] only evil continually. [every...: or, the whole imagination: the Hebrew word signifieth not only the imagination, but also the purposes and desires] [continually: Heb. every day] |
| 3. | Jeremiah 17:9 | The heart [is] deceitful above all [things], and desperately wicked: who can know it? |
| 4. | Romans 3:10 | As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: |
| 5. | Ecclesiastes 7:20 | For [there is] not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not. |