Contradiction with Proverbs 3:5
Explains dependence solely on God, while Ezra 8:21 seeks assurance from God, showing human initiative.
Proverbs 3:5: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Contradiction with Matthew 6:34
Advises not to worry about the future, while Ezra 8:21 shows concern for protection on the journey.
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 Philippians 4:6
Suggests praying about everything without anxiety, while Ezra 8:21 exhibits anxiety over a safe journey.
Philippians 4:6: Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
Contradiction with Psalm 46:10
Encourages being still and trusting God, whereas Ezra 8:21 involves active seeking for God's help.
Psalm 46:10: Be still, and know that I [am] God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:7
Promises that asking will lead to receiving, yet Ezra 8:21 involves fasting and humility for divine intervention.
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 Hebrews 11:1
Emphasizes faith as assurance and conviction, while Ezra 8:21 involves seeking signs of God’s assurance through fasting.
Hebrews 11:1: Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. [substance: or, ground, or, confidence]
Paradox #1
Ezra 8:21 talks about seeking a safe journey through fasting and prayer. A potential contradiction might arise when comparing this approach to other parts of the Bible that emphasize God's protection as being based on faith and obedience, rather than fasting. Some might see a difference between relying on fasting versus simply trusting in God's promises. However, this is often seen as complementary rather than contradictory, with fasting being one of several ways to seek God's guidance and protection.