Contradiction with Psalm 118:24
This verse suggests rejoicing and being glad in the day that the Lord has made, whereas Ecclesiastes 7:2 emphasizes the value of mourning over feasting.
Psalm 118:24: This [is] the day [which] the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.
Contradiction with Philippians 4:4
This verse instructs to "rejoice in the Lord always," contradicting the sentiment of preferring mourning in Ecclesiastes 7:2.
Philippians 4:4: Rejoice in the Lord alway: [and] again I say, Rejoice.
Contradiction with Proverbs 17:22
This verse highlights that a merry heart does good like medicine, which contrasts with the preference for mourning in Ecclesiastes 7:2.
Proverbs 17:22: A merry heart doeth good [like] a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones. [like: or, to]
Contradiction with John 16:20
This verse indicates that sorrow will be turned into joy, contrasting with Ecclesiastes 7:2’s idea that there is wisdom in mourning.
John 16:20: Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.
Contradiction with Nehemiah 8:10
This verse emphasizes the joy of the Lord as strength, differing from the notion that mourning is better found in Ecclesiastes 7:2.
Nehemiah 8:10: Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for [this] day [is] holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength.
Contradiction with Psalm 16:11
This verse speaks of fullness of joy in God's presence, contrary to the emphasis on the house of mourning in Ecclesiastes 7:2.
Psalm 16:11: Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence [is] fulness of joy; at thy right hand [there are] pleasures for evermore.
Contradiction with Luke 15:23-24
These verses describe celebrating and being glad, in contrast to the idea in Ecclesiastes 7:2 that it is better to go to the house of mourning.
Luke 15:23-24: And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill [it]; and let us eat, and be merry:
Paradox #1
Ecclesiastes 7:2 suggests that it is better to go to a house of mourning than a house of feasting, as it reminds people of mortality and encourages wisdom. A potential theological conflict could arise with verses that emphasize joy and celebration, such as those describing God's blessings and the joy of salvation. This could seem inconsistent with other teachings that encourage enjoying life's blessings. However, these differences can be understood as reflecting the complexity of human experiences and the balance between recognizing life's hardships and appreciating its joys.