Contradiction with Proverbs 4:18
While Ecclesiastes 2:14 mentions the wise having their eyes in their head, implying clarity, Proverbs 4:18 suggests the path of the just is ever brightening, implying continuous improvement rather than inherent clarity.
Proverbs 4:18: But the path of the just [is] as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.
Contradiction with Psalm 119:105
Ecclesiastes 2:14 implies inherent wisdom in sight, whereas Psalm 119:105 states that God's word is a lamp and light, suggesting wisdom comes from divine guidance, not innate sight.
Psalm 119:105: NUN. Thy word [is] a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. [lamp: or, candle]
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 1:25
Ecclesiastes 2:14 contrasts wisdom and foolishness, yet 1 Corinthians 1:25 tells us God's foolishness is wiser than human wisdom, challenging the inherent value judgments between wise and foolish.
1 Corinthians 1:25: Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
Contradiction with James 1:5
Ecclesiastes 2:14 distinguishes between wise and foolish by sight, while James 1:5 implies wisdom is given by God to those who lack it and seek it, contrasting with the notion of inherent wisdom.
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 Matthew 11:25
Ecclesiastes 2:14 suggests clear sight for the wise, but Matthew 11:25 suggests that God reveals truths to "babes" and hides them from the wise, implying the wise might not see all.
Matthew 11:25: At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.
Paradox #1
Ecclesiastes 2:14 suggests that both the wise and the foolish ultimately face the same fate, which seems to contradict the biblical idea that wisdom and righteousness lead to different outcomes than foolishness. This can create tension with other scriptures that emphasize the moral and eternal rewards of living wisely and following God's path.
Paradox #2
Ecclesiastes 2:14 discusses the difference between wisdom and foolishness, acknowledging that the wise can see clearly while fools walk in darkness. A potential contradiction arises when comparing this idea with other biblical teachings that suggest all human wisdom is limited or flawed in the face of divine wisdom. For instance, 1 Corinthians 1:25 speaks about God's wisdom being greater than human wisdom, which can create tension between valuing human wisdom and recognizing its limitations.
Paradox #3
The potential conflict with Ecclesiastes 2:14 could be that, elsewhere in the Bible, wisdom and righteousness are often portrayed as providing safety and protection. However, this verse suggests that both the wise and the foolish ultimately face the same fate, which might seem inconsistent with the idea that wisdom should lead to a distinctly better outcome.
Paradox #4
Ecclesiastes 2:14 states that "The wise have eyes in their heads, while the fool walks in the darkness," suggesting a clear distinction between wisdom and folly. Scientifically, one could argue that the contrast between wisdom and folly is more complex and is not solely determined by one's ability to see metaphorically where they are going. Intelligence and wisdom are influenced by a variety of factors, including genetic, environmental, and experiential elements, rather than a simplistic division of wise versus foolish. Therefore, the verse may oversimplify the nature of human intellect and decision-making, which science understands to be multi-faceted and diverse.
Paradox #5
Ecclesiastes 2:14 suggests that wise people see clearly, while foolish people walk in darkness, but both face the same fate. The moral conflict here could be the idea that wisdom and folly result in the same outcome, which might seem unfair or discourage people from striving to be wise. It raises questions about the value of wisdom if it doesn't change ultimate results.