Contradiction with Proverbs 4:7
While Ecclesiastes 9:16 suggests that wisdom is often despised despite being better than strength, Proverbs 4:7 emphasizes obtaining wisdom as the principal thing, indicating its utmost value and priority.
Proverbs 4:7: Wisdom [is] the principal thing; [therefore] get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 7:12
This verse states that wisdom gives life to those who have it, contradicting Ecclesiastes 9:16 by highlighting the sustaining power of wisdom.
Ecclesiastes 7:12: For wisdom [is] a defence, [and] money [is] a defence: but the excellency of knowledge [is, that] wisdom giveth life to them that have it. [defence: Heb. shadow]
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 1:25
This verse highlights that God's foolishness is wiser than men, contrasting with Ecclesiastes 9:16 by suggesting that wisdom is indeed powerful and enduring.
1 Corinthians 1:25: Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
Contradiction with Proverbs 2:6-7
These verses emphasize that wisdom and understanding come from God and provide protection, contradicting Ecclesiastes 9:16 by implying the honored and preserved role of wisdom.
Proverbs 2:6-7: For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth [cometh] knowledge and understanding.
Contradiction with Proverbs 3:13-14
These verses state that happiness and profit come from wisdom, contradicting Ecclesiastes 9:16 by suggesting that wisdom is highly valuable and rewarding.
Proverbs 3:13-14: Happy [is] the man [that] findeth wisdom, and the man [that] getteth understanding. [that getteth...: Heb. that draweth out understanding]
Paradox #1
Ecclesiastes 9:16 suggests that wisdom is better than strength. A potential contradiction comes when comparing this with passages praising might or material power, such as those that emphasize God's power or the importance of wealth in Proverbs. Some people might see this as inconsistent because it seems to prioritize wisdom over power in one place while endorsing power or wealth in another. However, these different perspectives might reflect the complexity of understanding how wisdom, power, and wealth interact in life.
Paradox #2
Ecclesiastes 9:16 suggests that wisdom is more valuable than strength, but often the wisdom of poor people is ignored. The contradiction here could be that other parts of the Bible emphasize the power and importance of wisdom without noting its potential dismissal, creating an inconsistency in how wisdom's effect is perceived and valued. Additionally, the Bible often teaches that God values what humans overlook, so the verse highlights a conflict between worldly and divine perspectives.
Paradox #3
This verse emphasizes the value of wisdom over strength but acknowledges that wisdom often goes unrecognized. The contradiction might be that, while society generally admires strength and power, truly wise guidance and solutions are frequently overlooked or ignored, even when they could prevent harm or lead to better outcomes. This creates a tension between what is valued and what is practically effective or beneficial.