Contradiction with Proverbs 22:1
Ecclesiastes 7:1 states that the day of death is better than the day of birth, while Proverbs 22:1 emphasizes the value of having a good name over riches, implying a focus on life and reputation.
Proverbs 22:1: A [good] name [is] rather to be chosen than great riches, [and] loving favour rather than silver and gold. [loving...: or, favour is better than, etc]
Contradiction with Philippians 1:21
Ecclesiastes 7:1 suggests the day of death is better, but Philippians 1:21 states "to live is Christ," emphasizing the importance and value of life.
Philippians 1:21: For to me to live [is] Christ, and to die [is] gain.
Contradiction with Genesis 2:7
Ecclesiastes 7:1 suggests death is better than birth, whereas Genesis 2:7 highlights the special creation and giving of life by God, implying a celebration of life.
Genesis 2:7: And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. [of the dust...: Heb. dust of the ground]
Contradiction with Psalm 118:24
Ecclesiastes 7:1 suggests the day of death is better, but Psalm 118:24 emphasizes rejoicing in the day the Lord has made, focusing on the value of living each day.
Psalm 118:24: This [is] the day [which] the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
Contradiction with John 10:10
Ecclesiastes 7:1 implies death is preferable, while John 10:10 speaks of Jesus coming to give life abundantly, highlighting the positive aspect of living.
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.
Paradox #1
Ecclesiastes 7:1 praises a good name and suggests that the day of death is better than the day of birth. The potential contradiction here could be with other parts of the Bible that celebrate life and birth, such as Genesis, where God blesses life creation, or Psalms, where there is a consistent theme of celebrating life and the joys it brings. This might seem inconsistent with the idea that the end of life could be seen as preferable.
Paradox #2
Ecclesiastes 7:1 suggests that the day of one's death is better than the day of one's birth. The contradiction or conflict here could be that it seems to value death over life, which may appear inconsistent with many religious and moral teachings that celebrate life and view it as a precious gift. This perspective might conflict with the inherent instinct to cherish birth and life as positive beginnings.