Contradiction with Proverbs 18:22
This verse contradicts Ecclesiastes 7:26 by stating that finding a wife is a good thing and brings favor from the Lord, suggesting a positive view of women.
Proverbs 18:22: [Whoso] findeth a wife findeth a good [thing], and obtaineth favour of the LORD.
Contradiction with Proverbs 31:10
This verse presents the idea of a virtuous woman as being far more valuable than rubies, contrasting with the negative portrayal in Ecclesiastes 7:26.
Proverbs 31:10: Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price [is] far above rubies.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 11:11
It emphasizes the interdependence of men and women in the Lord, contrasting with the negative tone of entrapment in Ecclesiastes 7:26.
1 Corinthians 11:11: Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord.
Contradiction with Proverbs 12:4
Portrays a virtuous woman as a crown to her husband, contrasting with the idea of snares and nets.
Proverbs 12:4: A virtuous woman [is] a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed [is] as rottenness in his bones.
Paradox #1
Ecclesiastes 7:26 could be seen as conflicting with other Bible verses that emphasize the equal value, worth, and dignity of both men and women. This verse can be interpreted as portraying women negatively, which might seem inconsistent with passages that highlight love, respect, and equality for all individuals.
Paradox #2
The verse speaks critically about women, which might conflict with other biblical teachings that promote respect and equality among all people. This could be seen as inconsistent with the positive portrayals of women elsewhere in the Bible, such as in Proverbs 31, where a virtuous woman is highly esteemed.
Paradox #3
Throughout history, interpretations of this verse have sparked debate about its view of women. Some argue it presents a negative view, which seems inconsistent with other parts of the Bible that emphasize love, respect, and wisdom as virtues. This contradiction has been discussed because the Bible elsewhere also portrays women positively. Different cultural, historical, and theological perspectives can influence how people interpret these texts.
Paradox #4
Ecclesiastes 7:26 might be seen as morally contradictory or inconsistent because it presents a negative view of women that could conflict with other biblical teachings that promote love, respect, and equality. Some readers might find it inconsistent with the idea that all people are created in the image of God and should be valued equally.