Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 11:9
Encourages the enjoyment of desires, which contradicts the notion of contentment with what one sees.
Ecclesiastes 11:9: Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes: but know thou, that for all these [things] God will bring thee into judgment.
Contradiction with Proverbs 21:17
Warns against loving pleasure, in contrast to Ecclesiastes 6:9 which suggests contentment without seeking more.
Proverbs 21:17: He that loveth pleasure [shall be] a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich. [pleasure: or, sport]
Contradiction with Philippians 4:11-12
Teaches contentment in all circumstances, while Ecclesiastes 6:9 emphasizes not desiring beyond what one has.
Philippians 4:11-12: Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, [therewith] to be content.
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 6:9-10
Speaks against desiring wealth, indirectly suggesting caution against desires, somewhat supported yet contradictory in approach to Ecclesiastes 6:9.
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.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in Ecclesiastes 6:9 could be seen when comparing its message about satisfaction and desires with other biblical teachings that encourage ambition or seeking more, like the parable of the talents in the New Testament. While Ecclesiastes 6:9 emphasizes contentment with what one has, other parts of the Bible sometimes encourage growth and striving for greater things in life or faith. This could seem inconsistent with how one should balance contentment and ambition.
Paradox #2
Ecclesiastes 6:9 might seem to contradict the idea of ambition or striving for more in life. The verse talks about being content with what you have rather than always wanting something else. This could conflict with the belief that working hard to improve one's situation or achieving more is a good thing. While contentment suggests satisfaction with current circumstances, ambition encourages pursuing goals and dreams, leading to a potential moral conflict between being content and striving for more.