Contradiction with Isaiah 14:8
Ezekiel 31:18 discusses the grandeur of Assyria compared to others before it joins them in the grave, contrasting with Isaiah 14:8's depiction of the self-destruction and fall of Babylon's king, celebrated by the trees still thriving.
Isaiah 14:8: Yea, the fir trees rejoice at thee, [and] the cedars of Lebanon, [saying], Since thou art laid down, no feller is come up against us.
Contradiction with Daniel 4:22
Ezekiel 31:18 refers negatively to Assyria, implying its downfall as it joins others in the grave, whereas Daniel 4:22 depicts the greatness of Nebuchadnezzar's reign, reaching the heavens and ruling over the earth.
Daniel 4:22: It [is] thou, O king, that art grown and become strong: for thy greatness is grown, and reacheth unto heaven, and thy dominion to the end of the earth.
Contradiction with Matthew 11:23
Ezekiel 31:18 describes Assyria's ultimate descent to the grave, contrasting with Matthew 11:23, where Capernaum's fall from exaltation to Hades is illustrated as a moral repercussion, rather than a comparison to other nations.
Matthew 11:23: And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day.
Contradiction with Job 14:7-9
Ezekiel 31:18 talks about Assyria's fall into the grave like other nations, while Job 14:7-9 expresses hope and renewal through a tree sprouting again, contradicting the finality implied in Ezekiel.
Job 14:7-9: For there is hope of a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that the tender branch thereof will not cease.
Contradiction with Ezekiel 17:24
Ezekiel 31:18 portrays Assyria's downfall with no hope of renewal, whereas Ezekiel 17:24 speaks of the reversal of fortunes where the dry tree flourishes, suggesting a future restoration.
Ezekiel 17:24: And all the trees of the field shall know that I the LORD have brought down the high tree, have exalted the low tree, have dried up the green tree, and have made the dry tree to flourish: I the LORD have spoken and have done [it].
Paradox #1
The contradiction or conflict in Ezekiel 31:18 might arise from the comparison between powerful entities and their eventual downfall. It could be seen as inconsistent that seemingly strong and exalted figures are ultimately brought low. This may challenge the belief in enduring success or security based on power and glory alone.