Contradiction with Proverbs 27:1
While Esther 4:14 emphasizes action for a specific time ("for such a time as this"), Proverbs 27:1 advises not to boast about tomorrow, indicating uncertainty about the future.
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 Matthew 6:34
Esther 4:14 suggests readiness for a destined moment, but Matthew 6:34 advises not to worry about tomorrow, focusing on the present instead.
Matthew 6:34: Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day [is] the evil thereof.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 3:1
Esther 4:14 speaks to a unique purpose in a time of crisis, whereas Ecclesiastes 3:1 generalizes that there is a season and time for every purpose under heaven, implying regularity rather than singularity.
Ecclesiastes 3:1: To every [thing there is] a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
Contradiction with James 4:13-14
Esther 4:14 implies a clear purpose and outcome for specific times, whereas James 4:13-14 highlights the uncertainty of life and the futility of planning for the future without acknowledgment of God's will.
James 4:13-14: Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain:
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 1:27-29
Esther 4:14 focuses on Mordecai identifying Esther's potential role, while 1 Corinthians 1:27-29 emphasizes God choosing the weak and lowly to nullify the strong, rather than human determination of significance.
1 Corinthians 1:27-29: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;
Paradox #1
The theological issue with Esther 4:14 might center on the idea of divine intervention and human responsibility. Some might see a tension between God's providence and human action, questioning how much depends on God's will versus human effort. This verse can raise questions about free will, the role of individuals in fulfilling divine plans, and whether God will raise others to act if one chooses not to.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or conflict could be the idea of divine intervention versus human action. The verse suggests that Esther has a unique opportunity and responsibility to act for her people but also implies that if she doesn’t, help will come from another place. This can create tension between the belief in destiny or divine plans and the importance of taking personal responsibility and action.