Contradiction with Matthew 6:19-20
These verses advise not to lay up treasures on earth but in heaven, contrasting with the enjoyment of wealth mentioned in Ecclesiastes 5:19.
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 Luke 12:33
This verse encourages selling possessions and giving alms, which contradicts with finding joy in wealth and possessions as in Ecclesiastes 5:19.
Luke 12:33: Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.
Contradiction with James 5:1-3
These verses warn of misery for the rich and corroding wealth, opposing the gift of wealth for enjoyment mentioned in Ecclesiastes 5:19.
James 5:1-3: Go to now, [ye] rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon [you].
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 6:9-10
These verses describe the dangers of the desire for wealth, conflicting with the positive view of enjoying wealth in Ecclesiastes 5:19.
1 Timothy 6:9-10: But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and [into] many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.
Contradiction with Proverbs 23:4-5
This passage advises not to overwork to gain riches, contradicting the blessing of wealth described in Ecclesiastes 5:19.
Proverbs 23:4-5: Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom.
Paradox #1
Ecclesiastes 5:19 talks about enjoying wealth and possessions as a gift from God. Some might see a contradiction because other parts of the Bible, like in the New Testament, warn against the love of money and worldly possessions. This could seem inconsistent as one part of the Bible encourages enjoyment of wealth while another warns against becoming too attached to it.
Paradox #2
Ecclesiastes 5:19 suggests that enjoying material wealth and prosperity is a gift from God and should be accepted with gratitude. The potential contradiction arises when this perspective is compared to other biblical teachings that warn against the dangers of wealth, such as the idea that it can lead to spiritual complacency or conflict with devotion to God. These differing viewpoints can create tension between celebrating prosperity and maintaining spiritual integrity.