Contradiction with Proverbs 13:22
Ecclesiastes 2:21 suggests leaving one's labor to someone who hasn't worked for it can be troubling, while Proverbs 13:22 speaks of a good man leaving an inheritance for his descendants, implying a positive view of such an act.
Proverbs 13:22: A good [man] leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner [is] laid up for the just.
Contradiction with Matthew 6:19-20
Ecclesiastes 2:21 laments leaving material wealth to others who did not work for it, whereas Matthew 6:19-20 advises against storing earthly treasures altogether, encouraging focus on spiritual wealth.
Matthew 6:19-20: Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 6:17-19
Ecclesiastes 2:21 highlights the futility of passing on one's labor, while 1 Timothy 6:17-19 encourages the rich to do good and be generous, viewing wealth as an opportunity rather than a vanity.
1 Timothy 6:17-19: Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; [uncertain...: Gr. uncertainty of riches]
Paradox #1
This verse might seem contradictory to the idea that hard work and wisdom are always rewarded fairly. It reflects a tension between human effort and the unpredictability of life's outcomes, which might seem inconsistent with the belief that righteous actions are always rewarded by God.
Paradox #2
Ecclesiastes 2:21 talks about someone working hard with wisdom and knowledge, but leaving the results of their work to someone who didn’t work for it. The perceived contradiction might arise when compared to other parts of the Bible that emphasize the rewarding nature of hard work. Some might see a conflict between this verse's somewhat pessimistic view of work and the more positive or hopeful views on labor and reward found elsewhere in Scripture. However, it can also be understood as highlighting the transient nature of earthly achievements and the need for a spiritual perspective.
Paradox #3
Ecclesiastes 2:21 speaks about the frustration of working hard and leaving the results to someone who hasn't worked for it. The contradiction or conflict here lies in the Bible itself, which often highlights hard work and diligence as virtuous. For instance, other parts of the Bible, like Proverbs, praise hard work and suggest that diligent efforts lead to rewards. This creates a tension between the idea of working hard as a blessing and the futility expressed in Ecclesiastes, leading to differing interpretations about the value and outcomes of labor.
Paradox #4
Ecclesiastes 2:21 might be seen as inconsistent because it suggests that a person can work hard and gain wisdom, knowledge, and skill, but ultimately, they must leave everything to someone who hasn't worked for it. This could contradict the idea of justice or fairness, where people should earn what they receive. The potential moral conflict is in the perceived unfairness of rewards and wealth being passed to others who haven't put in the same effort.