Contradiction with Isaiah 46:9
Ecclesiastes 1:11 says there is no remembrance of former things, whereas Isaiah 46:9 emphasizes remembering the former things of old.
Isaiah 46:9: Remember the former things of old: for I [am] God, and [there is] none else; [I am] God, and [there is] none like me,
Contradiction with Psalm 77:11
Ecclesiastes 1:11 claims there is no remembrance of former things, but Psalm 77:11 speaks of remembering the works of the LORD.
Psalm 77:11: I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old.
Contradiction with Exodus 3:15
Ecclesiastes 1:11 implies no former remembrance, yet Exodus 3:15 states that God's name is a memorial for all generations.
Exodus 3:15: And God said moreover unto Moses, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, The LORD God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this [is] my name for ever, and this [is] my memorial unto all generations.
Contradiction with Malachi 3:16
Ecclesiastes 1:11 suggests former things are forgotten, while Malachi 3:16 mentions a book of remembrance being written.
Malachi 3:16: Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard [it], and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name.
Contradiction with 2 Peter 3:1-2
Ecclesiastes 1:11 speaks of no remembrance, but 2 Peter 3:1-2 encourages remembering the words spoken before by the holy prophets.
2 Peter 3:1-2: This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in [both] which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance:
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 32:7
Ecclesiastes 1:11 implies no remembrance, while Deuteronomy 32:7 advises remembering the days of old and considering the years of many generations.
Deuteronomy 32:7: Remember the days of old, consider the years of many generations: ask thy father, and he will shew thee; thy elders, and they will tell thee. [many...: Heb. generation and generation]
Paradox #1
Ecclesiastes 1:11 might seem to contradict the idea of lasting legacy and remembrance often emphasized elsewhere in the Bible. While some parts of scripture stress that righteous deeds and names endure forever, this verse suggests that people and their actions are ultimately forgotten. This could create an inconsistency with teachings that encourage living a life that leaves an enduring impact.
Paradox #2
Ecclesiastes 1:11 might seem in conflict with other parts of the Bible due to its expression of life's fleeting nature and the idea that past events and people are soon forgotten. This can contrast with passages that emphasize remembrance and the eternal significance of one's actions and legacy, such as the idea of an everlasting reward or judgment. Additionally, it may appear inconsistent with teachings that stress the importance of historical faithfulness and the continuity of God's promises throughout generations.
Paradox #3
The contradiction, inconsistency, or conflict is that the verse suggests people and events are forgotten over time, while historical records and traditions show that some figures and events are remembered for centuries. This can seem inconsistent with the idea that all is forgotten.
Paradox #4
Ecclesiastes 1:11 talks about the idea that people and their deeds are often forgotten over time. The contradiction or conflict could be that many teachings in religious texts encourage living a righteous life to be remembered and to leave a legacy. This verse suggests that no matter what we do, we may still be forgotten, which seems at odds with the idea of living a meaningful life to achieve lasting impact or remembrance.