Contradiction with Proverbs 21:30
Ecclesiastes 9:18 states that wisdom is better than weapons of war, implying the superiority of wisdom, while Proverbs 21:30 suggests no wisdom, understanding, or counsel can stand against the Lord.
Proverbs 21:30: [There is] no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against the LORD.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 1:25
Ecclesiastes 9:18 highlights the value of wisdom, while 1 Corinthians 1:25 mentions that the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, contradicting the focus on human wisdom.
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 4:7
Ecclesiastes 9:18 points out wisdom's value despite being susceptible to a single sinner destroying good, whereas Proverbs 4:7 calls wisdom the principal thing, emphasizing its supreme importance without recognizing such vulnerability.
Proverbs 4:7: Wisdom [is] the principal thing; [therefore] get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.
Contradiction with James 3:15
Ecclesiastes 9:18 favors wisdom in the face of destructive sin, whereas James 3:15 indicates there is a wisdom that does not come from above, questioning the purity and benefit of all wisdom.
James 3:15: This wisdom descendeth not from above, but [is] earthly, sensual, devilish. [sensual: or, natural]
Paradox #1
Ecclesiastes often emphasizes the unpredictability and seeming unfairness of life, which could seem to conflict with other biblical teachings that highlight justice and divine order. This might create tension for readers trying to reconcile the view that wisdom has limits and that life's outcomes are not always deserved, with the belief in a just and orderly universe governed by God.
Paradox #2
Ecclesiastes 9:18 suggests that wisdom is valuable but can be overshadowed by the actions of one sinner. A potential doctrinal conflict might arise with other Bible teachings that emphasize the ultimate triumph and strength of wisdom and righteousness over sin, such as in Proverbs, where wisdom is always portrayed as invaluable and leading to positive outcomes. This verse may seem to undermine the power of wisdom by acknowledging its vulnerability to being undone by sin.
Paradox #3
Ecclesiastes 9:18 says that wisdom is better than weapons of war, but it also notes that one sinner can destroy much good. The contradiction or inconsistency might be felt when comparing it to other parts of the Bible that emphasize the power and strength of righteous individuals or leaders defeating evil or sin. Some might see it as conflicting with the idea that the righteous can overcome great odds through faith or divine help, since this verse points out how a single wrongdoer can have a large negative impact, suggesting a fragility to goodness.
Paradox #4
Ecclesiastes 9:18 could present a contradiction because it suggests that wisdom is superior and more effective than weapons of war, yet it also admits that a single sinner can destroy much good. This could seem inconsistent because it implies that even the best wisdom can be easily undone by wrongdoing, challenging the idea of the supremacy and effectiveness of wisdom alone.