Contradiction with Matthew 6:19-21
While Ecclesiastes 2:4 describes personal achievements, Matthew 6:19-21 advises against laying up treasures on earth, emphasizing heavenly treasures instead.
Matthew 6:19-21: 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 6:7-10
Ecclesiastes 2:4 details building and acquiring possessions, but 1 Timothy warns of the dangers and vanity of pursuing wealth and possessions.
1 Timothy 6:7-10: For we brought nothing into [this] world, [and it is] certain we can carry nothing out.
Contradiction with Luke 12:15-21
Ecclesiastes 2:4 highlights personal building projects, whereas Luke 12:15-21 warns against greed and storing up earthly goods without being rich toward God.
Luke 12:15-21: And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.
Contradiction with Philippians 3:7-8
While Ecclesiastes 2:4 describes efforts in personal accomplishments, Philippians 3:7-8 regards worldly gains as loss compared to knowing Christ.
Philippians 3:7-8: But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.
Contradiction with Matthew 16:26
Ecclesiastes 2:4 reports achievements, yet Matthew 16:26 questions the value of gaining the world but losing one's soul.
Matthew 16:26: For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
Contradiction with Proverbs 23:4-5
Ecclesiastes 2:4 talks about self-made projects, whereas Proverbs advises not to overwork to attain wealth due to its fleeting nature.
Proverbs 23:4-5: Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom.
Paradox #1
Ecclesiastes 2:4 talks about achieving great things and gaining wealth, which can seem to contradict the idea in other parts of the Bible that emphasize humility and spiritual wealth over material gain. This conflict arises because one might wonder how both seeking wealth and being humble or spiritually focused can align within the same belief system.