Contradiction with Proverbs 16:31
This verse highlights the value and honor of old age, contradicting Ecclesiastes 4:13 which suggests that a poor and wise youth is better than an old and foolish king.
Proverbs 16:31: The hoary head [is] a crown of glory, [if] it be found in the way of righteousness.
Contradiction with Leviticus 19:32
This verse commands respect for the elderly, in contrast to the notion in Ecclesiastes 4:13 that favors youth over an older king.
Leviticus 19:32: Thou shalt rise up before the hoary head, and honour the face of the old man, and fear thy God: I [am] the LORD.
Contradiction with Job 12:12
This verse states that wisdom comes with the aged, while Ecclesiastes 4:13 prefers the wisdom of the young poor man.
Job 12:12: With the ancient [is] wisdom; and in length of days understanding.
Contradiction with 1 Kings 3:12-14
These verses highlight the wisdom granted to Solomon as a king, which is contrary to Ecclesiastes 4:13's assertion that a poor and wise youth is preferable to an old foolish king.
1 Kings 3:12-14: Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee.
Paradox #1
Ecclesiastes 4:13 might show a contradiction or inconsistency in terms of wisdom and leadership. In some parts of the Bible, being old is often associated with having wisdom and experience, like in the Book of Proverbs, where elders are respected for their knowledge. However, this verse suggests that a young, wise person can sometimes be better than an old, foolish king. This can be seen as a conflict with the more traditional view that age inherently brings wisdom.
Paradox #2
Ecclesiastes 4:13 could be seen as highlighting a contradiction in valuing wisdom over experience or status. It suggests that a young, wise person might be better than an old, foolish king who refuses advice. The conflict arises in societies or systems that traditionally value age and position, potentially contradicting the notion that wisdom and openness to learning are more important.