Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 8:15
This verse suggests that eating, drinking, and being merry are advisable, contrasting with the warning against indulgence in Ecclesiastes 10:17.
Ecclesiastes 8:15: Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun.
Contradiction with Proverbs 23:20-21
These verses warn against the dangers of eating and drinking to excess, aligning with a literal reading of Ecclesiastes 10:17 but contradicting by suggesting a broader moral dimension.
Proverbs 23:20-21: Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh: [of flesh: Heb. of their flesh]
Contradiction with Isaiah 22:13
This verse depicts eating and drinking as frivolous behavior in the face of calamity, contrasting with the more structured, timely eating implied in Ecclesiastes 10:17.
Isaiah 22:13: And behold joy and gladness, slaying oxen, and killing sheep, eating flesh, and drinking wine: let us eat and drink; for to morrow we shall die.
Contradiction with Luke 12:19-20
The parable cautions against finding security in eating, drinking, and merriment, contrasting with the suggestion of moderation in Ecclesiastes 10:17.
Luke 12:19-20: And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, [and] be merry.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 15:32
This verse mentions "let us eat and drink; for tomorrow we die," conveying a nihilistic attitude that contradicts the wisdom sought in Ecclesiastes 10:17.
1 Corinthians 15:32: If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die. [after...: or, to speak after the manner of men]
Paradox #1
Ecclesiastes 10:17 suggests that it is better for the land to have a king who is the right kind of person and for its leaders to eat at the right time for strength, not just for waking up to eat and drink out of self-indulgence. Some might see a contradiction with other biblical teachings that emphasize spiritual benefits over worldly wisdom or following God's commands regardless of worldly success. This verse focuses on practical wisdom in terms of leadership and planning, whereas other parts of the Bible might focus more on divine guidance over practical affairs, which could be seen as inconsistent by some interpretations.
Paradox #2
Ecclesiastes 10:17 suggests that blessings come when leaders are noble and prioritize the good of their people rather than indulging in excess or self-gratification. The contradiction could arise when comparing this ideal to other biblical narratives where God chooses leaders who might not fit the traditional mold of nobility or temperance initially, such as King David's complex character development. This can create tension between the ideal and the reality of whom God chooses to lead.