Contradiction with Philippians 1:21
Contradicts Ecclesiastes 4:3 by presenting life and death as both gainful, while Ecclesiastes 4:3 suggests non-existence may be preferable.
Philippians 1:21: For to me to live [is] Christ, and to die [is] gain.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 9:4
Contradicts Ecclesiastes 4:3 by asserting life, even with struggles, is better than death.
Ecclesiastes 9:4: For to him that is joined to all the living there is hope: for a living dog is better than a dead lion.
Contradiction with Psalm 127:3
Contradicts Ecclesiastes 4:3 by valuing being born and considering children a heritage from the Lord.
Psalm 127:3: Lo, children [are] an heritage of the LORD: [and] the fruit of the womb [is his] reward.
Contradiction with John 10:10
Contradicts Ecclesiastes 4:3 by emphasizing the fulfillment and abundance found in life.
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 1 Peter 3:10-11
Contradicts Ecclesiastes 4:3 by advising love of life and good days through righteous living.
1 Peter 3:10-11: For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:
Paradox #1
Ecclesiastes 4:3 might seem to contradict the general biblical theme that life is a gift from God and is inherently valuable. This verse suggests that it might be better never to have been born than to experience life's hardships, which can be seen as conflicting with the belief that life, despite suffering, is ultimately meaningful and purposeful according to God’s plan.
Paradox #2
Ecclesiastes 4:3 suggests that those who have never been born are better off than those who have experienced life's suffering. This might seem inconsistent with other biblical teachings that affirm the value of life and portray life as a gift from God. It could conflict with verses that emphasize living a righteous life and striving for happiness despite challenges.
Paradox #3
The potential contradiction or conflict could be the idea that never experiencing life is seen as more favorable than witnessing or enduring the hardships and evil present in the world. This outlook might be at odds with the broader biblical theme of life as a precious gift and the value of enduring suffering with faith and hope.