Contradiction with Psalm 127:3-5
Ecclesiastes 6:3 views having many children without satisfaction as meaningless, while this Psalm describes children as a heritage and reward from the Lord, highlighting the blessing they represent.
Psalm 127:3-5: Lo, children [are] an heritage of the LORD: [and] the fruit of the womb [is his] reward.
Contradiction with Proverbs 17:6
Ecclesiastes 6:3 suggests the futility of many offspring without enjoying prosperity, but Proverbs 17:6 portrays children as the crown of old men, valuing them irrespective of material success.
Proverbs 17:6: Children's children [are] the crown of old men; and the glory of children [are] their fathers.
Contradiction with Genesis 1:28
Ecclesiastes 6:3 notes vanity in a man's life despite having numerous children, while Genesis 1:28 commands fruitfulness and multiplication as a divine blessing, celebrating procreation.
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]
Contradiction with Proverbs 31:28
Ecclesiastes 6:3 emphasizes dissatisfaction despite numerous progeny, whereas Proverbs 31:28 speaks of children rising to bless a virtuous woman, suggesting fulfillment in family.
Proverbs 31:28: Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband [also], and he praiseth her.
Paradox #1
This verse could be seen as contradicting the belief in the inherent value of life and children often found in other parts of the Bible. While many scriptures emphasize blessings and joy in having children, this verse suggests that without contentment, even a large family and a long life could be meaningless. This might seem inconsistent with the positive views on family and longevity in other passages.
Paradox #2
Ecclesiastes 6:3 highlights the idea that a person may have many children and live a long life but still not find contentment or satisfaction. The potential contradiction or conflict could be that while having a large family and long life are often seen as blessings or signs of a good life, the verse suggests that these alone do not guarantee happiness or fulfillment. This might conflict with cultural or religious beliefs that equate progeny and longevity with divine favor or success.