Contradiction with Philippians 1:21
Ecclesiastes 4:2 praises the dead, while Philippians 1:21 teaches that living for Christ is gain.
Philippians 1:21: For to me to live [is] Christ, and to die [is] gain.
Contradiction with John 10:10
Ecclesiastes 4:2 suggests the dead are blessed, contrasting with John 10:10, which emphasizes abundant life in Christ.
John 10:10: The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have [it] more abundantly.
Contradiction with Psalm 118:24
Ecclesiastes 4:2 implies death is preferable, whereas Psalm 118:24 celebrates the joy and blessing of each living day.
Psalm 118:24: This [is] the day [which] the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
Contradiction with Romans 14:8
Ecclesiastes 4:2 holds the dead in higher regard, while Romans 14:8 indicates both living and dying serve the Lord.
Romans 14:8: For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.
Contradiction with Genesis 1:28
Ecclesiastes 4:2 suggests the value in death over life, opposed to Genesis 1:28, which commands multiplication and life on earth.
Genesis 1:28: And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. [moveth: Heb. creepeth]
Paradox #1
One potential contradiction in this verse could be the notion that not being born or being deceased is better than living, which might conflict with other biblical teachings that emphasize the value and sanctity of life. Some biblical texts celebrate life as a gift from God and encourage people to live fully, contradicting the sentiment that it might be better not to experience life at all. This can create tension with the broader message of hope and purpose found in other parts of the Bible.
Paradox #2
Ecclesiastes 4:2 could seem to contradict other biblical teachings that emphasize the value and sanctity of life. While this verse suggests a viewpoint about the state of the dead versus the living, broader Biblical teachings often encourage finding joy and purpose in life, as well as trusting God's plan. The contrast between valuing life experiences and this verse's perspective might appear inconsistent.
Paradox #3
Ecclesiastes 4:2 suggests that those who have died are better off than those who are still alive. The contradiction here could be that it conflicts with the general belief in the value and sanctity of life. While life is typically considered precious and worth preserving, the verse implies that death is preferable, which may seem inconsistent with the idea that living life is a blessing and an opportunity for growth and fulfillment.