Contradictions and Paradoxes in Esther 1:14

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Esther 1:14 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Esther 1:14. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the book of Esther, these men were important helpers to the king and were able to see him often. They were like the king's special friends who gave him advice and helped him make big decisions.

Esther 1:14: And the next unto him [was] Carshena, Shethar, Admatha, Tarshish, Meres, Marsena, [and] Memucan, the seven princes of Persia and Media, which saw the king's face, [and] which sat the first in the kingdom;)

Contradiction with Proverbs 12:15

This verse emphasizes the value of seeking wise counsel, which contrasts with the decisions made by the king's advisors in Esther 1:14 that are later shown to have questionable outcomes.

Proverbs 12:15: The way of a fool [is] right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel [is] wise.

Contradiction with Proverbs 15:22

Highlights the necessity for wise counselors for plans to succeed, contradictory to the subsequent events in the story of Esther where the advice led to complex outcomes.

Proverbs 15:22: Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.

Contradiction with Proverbs 19:20-21

Suggests listening to wise counsel yet ultimately acknowledging God's purpose, contrasting the secular decision-making process described in Esther 1:14 without evident divine consultation.

Proverbs 19:20-21: Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end.

Contradiction with Isaiah 40:13-14

Emphasizes God's wisdom and knowledge beyond human counselors, which contrasts with the reliance solely on human advisors in Esther 1:14.

Isaiah 40:13-14: Who hath directed the Spirit of the LORD, or [being] his counsellor hath taught him? [his...: Heb. man of his counsel]

Contradiction with Jeremiah 10:23

Notes that humans cannot direct their own steps successfully, implicitly contrasting the confidence placed in the king's advisors in Esther.

Jeremiah 10:23: O LORD, I know that the way of man [is] not in himself: [it is] not in man that walketh to direct his steps.

Contradiction with James 1:5

Encourages seeking divine wisdom, contrasting the earthly counsel sought by King Ahasuerus in Esther 1:14.

James 1:5: If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all [men] liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 1:25

God's wisdom is greater than human advice, contrasting the emphasis on human advice in Esther 1:14.

1 Corinthians 1:25: Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.

Contradiction with Romans 11:33

Contrasts human counsel with God’s infinite wisdom, highlighting a spiritual rather than temporal approach to decision-making.

Romans 11:33: O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable [are] his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
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