Contradiction with Matthew 7:7
This verse emphasizes asking and receiving, which could be seen as encouraging desire for things that others might have, contrasting with the directive against coveting.
Matthew 7:7: Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 6:10
This verse suggests that desiring wealth (which can involve coveting) leads to evil, contradicting the sinfulness of coveting itself as stated in Exodus 20:17.
1 Timothy 6:10: For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. [erred: or, been seduced]
Contradiction with Proverbs 21:26
This verse mentions the righteous desire good, implying there is a form of desiring that is acceptable, contradicting the blanket prohibition of coveting in Exodus 20:17.
Proverbs 21:26: He coveteth greedily all the day long: but the righteous giveth and spareth not.
Contradiction with Psalm 37:4
This verse encourages delighting in the Lord to receive the desires of one’s heart, conflicting with the idea of prohibiting desire for others' possessions.
Psalm 37:4: Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
Contradiction with James 4:2
This verse highlights desire leading to conflict but implies that asking God is acceptable, suggesting a contrast to the strict prohibition of coveting in Exodus 20:17.
James 4:2: Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction could arise in understanding the idea of coveting. The command not to covet may conflict with the human experience of desire and ambition. Some might argue that having desires is natural or even necessary for motivation and progress. Balancing natural desires with moral teachings can create tension or confusion in practical application.
Paradox #2
Exodus 20:17 discusses not coveting, but it might seem inconsistent with societal emphasis on ambition or desire for personal advancement. While ambition is often encouraged for success, the verse warns against desiring what others have, highlighting potential tension between personal goals and contentment.
Paradox #3
The contradiction of Exodus 20:17 could be seen in the context of ancient societies where wealth and property often depended on conquest and acquisition. The verse promotes personal contentment and not coveting others' possessions, which might conflict with historical practices of expanding power and wealth through warfare and taking others' property.
Paradox #4
The contradiction could be that the verse advises against wanting what others have, but in daily life, wanting more or better things can be a motivator for self-improvement and progress. This creates a conflict between being content and striving for betterment.