Contradiction with Proverbs 2:6
Ecclesiastes 1:17 suggests the understanding of folly whereas Proverbs 2:6 states wisdom and understanding come from the Lord, indicating a positive value and source of wisdom.
Proverbs 2:6: For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth [cometh] knowledge and understanding.
Contradiction with James 1:5
James 1:5 encourages asking God for wisdom, promising it will be given without finding fault, contrasting with Ecclesiastes 1:17's depiction of wisdom as a vexing pursuit.
James 1:5: If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all [men] liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
Contradiction with Proverbs 3:13
Proverbs 3:13 acknowledges the happiness in finding wisdom, which is at odds with the mixed outcome implied by Ecclesiastes 1:17.
Proverbs 3:13: Happy [is] the man [that] findeth wisdom, and the man [that] getteth understanding. [that getteth...: Heb. that draweth out understanding]
Contradiction with Proverbs 4:7
Contrasts Ecclesiastes 1:17 by stating wisdom is the principal thing, highlighting its utmost importance versus the frustrating endeavor suggested by Ecclesiastes.
Proverbs 4:7: Wisdom [is] the principal thing; [therefore] get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 3:19
Calls the wisdom of this world foolishness with God, conflicting with Ecclesiastes 1:17's pursuit of both wisdom and madness to understand folly.
1 Corinthians 3:19: For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness.
Paradox #1
Some people might find a contradiction in Ecclesiastes 1:17 because it discusses the pursuit of wisdom and knowledge as ultimately being burdensome or even meaningless. This could seem inconsistent with other parts of the Bible that encourage seeking wisdom, like in the Book of Proverbs. The conflict lies in balancing the value of wisdom with the idea that it can't provide ultimate fulfillment or answers to life's biggest questions.
Paradox #2
Ecclesiastes 1:17 talks about seeking wisdom and knowledge but finding it leads to more sorrow or trouble. A possible contradiction might be with other Bible teachings that present wisdom as a positive and desirable pursuit, such as in the book of Proverbs, where wisdom is often praised and encouraged. This contrast might seem inconsistent when one book suggests wisdom leads to sorrow, while another says it brings understanding and life.
Paradox #3
Ecclesiastes 1:17 talks about seeking wisdom and knowledge. A potential conflict could be how the verse might approach wisdom and human understanding as ultimately unsatisfying or futile, whereas the scientific method values the pursuit of knowledge and understanding as inherently valuable and progressive. This could create a philosophical tension between religious and scientific views on the value of seeking knowledge.
Paradox #4
Ecclesiastes 1:17 explores the pursuit of wisdom and knowledge and the realization that it can lead to grief and sorrow. The contradiction or inconsistency might be that while wisdom is typically seen as valuable and desirable, this verse suggests that seeking too much wisdom can actually bring pain, challenging the usual perception of wisdom as wholly positive.