Contradiction with Matthew 5:37
Ecclesiastes 5:5 suggests not making vows, implying restraint, while Matthew 5:37 advocates directness and commitment through simple affirmation.
Matthew 5:37: But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.
Contradiction with James 5:12
Ecclesiastes 5:5 warns against vow-making to avoid sin, contradicting James 5:12's call for straightforward communication over oath-taking.
James 5:12: But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and [your] nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.
Contradiction with Numbers 30:2
Numbers 30:2 supports vow-keeping as a duty, conflicting with Ecclesiastes 5:5, which advises against making vows to avoid sinning.
Numbers 30:2: If a man vow a vow unto the LORD, or swear an oath to bind his soul with a bond; he shall not break his word, he shall do according to all that proceedeth out of his mouth. [break: Heb. profane]
Paradox #1
Ecclesiastes 5:5 advises that it's better not to make a promise than to make one and not keep it. The theological conflict here could arise when compared to verses in the Bible that emphasize faith, forgiveness, and second chances. The potential contradiction is that while this verse underscores the importance of keeping promises, other scriptures may encourage believers to forgive broken promises and offer new opportunities to make amends. This could create some tension between the strict adherence to commitments and the value of grace and forgiveness.
Paradox #2
Ecclesiastes 5:5 advises that it is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it. A potential doctrinal conflict could arise with the concept of grace and forgiveness in Christianity. While the verse emphasizes the importance of keeping promises, the broader Christian doctrine teaches that humans are fallible and that God's grace and forgiveness are available to those who repent for their shortcomings. This might seem inconsistent because one emphasizes strict adherence to promises, while the other emphasizes forgiveness for human errors.
Paradox #3
Ecclesiastes 5:5 highlights the importance of keeping promises. A potential contradiction might arise when compared to other biblical teachings about forgiveness and grace. If one focuses solely on strict adherence to promises, it might seem to conflict with the idea of offering forgiveness for broken promises. This could create tension between being just and practicing mercy.