Contradiction with Matthew 24:36
This verse states that of the day and hour of certain future events knows no one, which contrasts with the sense of seeking but ultimately lacking knowledge about future events in Ecclesiastes 8:7.
Matthew 24:36: But of that day and hour knoweth no [man], no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.
Contradiction with 1 Thessalonians 5:2
Describes the day of the Lord coming as a thief in the night, underscoring the inability to foresee it, similar to Ecclesiastes 8:7’s uncertainty but adding a definite event arrival.
1 Thessalonians 5:2: For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.
Contradiction with Proverbs 27:1
Advises not to boast about tomorrow because we do not know what a day will bring forth, reflecting a similar sentiment to Ecclesiastes 8:7 but with a cautionary tone.
Proverbs 27:1: Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth. [to...: Heb. to morrow day]
Contradiction with James 4:14
Points out the uncertainty of life, stating we do not know what will happen tomorrow, aligning with the notion of future unpredictability in Ecclesiastes 8:7.
James 4:14: Whereas ye know not what [shall be] on the morrow. For what [is] your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. [It...: or, For it is]
Contradiction with Mark 13:32
Asserts that no one knows the day or hour, not even the angels or the Son, except the Father, emphasizing the unknown that mirrors Ecclesiastes 8:7 yet highlighting divine knowledge.
Mark 13:32: But of that day and [that] hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.
Paradox #1
Ecclesiastes 8:7 touches on the uncertainty of the future, which can conflict with the idea that God has a specific plan for everything. Some might see this as inconsistent because other parts of the Bible suggest that God is all-knowing and has control over future events. This could lead to questions about how human uncertainty and divine omniscience coexist.
Paradox #2
Ecclesiastes 8:7 highlights the uncertainty of the future, suggesting that people can't predict what will happen. A potential contradiction or inconsistency could be seen in the tension between this acceptance of uncertainty and other biblical teachings that emphasize faith and divine providence. Some might find it conflicting that on one hand, the Bible encourages trust in God's plan, while on the other hand, it acknowledges human inability to foresee future events, which could imply a lack of control or understanding of God's intentions.