Contradiction with Proverbs 21:15
Whereas Habakkuk 1:4 discusses how justice is not executed, Proverbs 21:15 states that it is a joy for the just to do judgment, implying justice is an active delight.
Proverbs 21:15: [It is] joy to the just to do judgment: but destruction [shall be] to the workers of iniquity.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 8:11
Habakkuk 1:4 notes the slackening of justice, while Ecclesiastes 8:11 suggests that delayed justice encourages more evil activity.
Ecclesiastes 8:11: Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.
Contradiction with Isaiah 1:17
Habakkuk 1:4 laments the absence of justice, while Isaiah 1:17 calls for active pursuit of justice, implying it should and can be achieved.
Isaiah 1:17: Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow. [relieve: or, righten]
Contradiction with 1 Peter 2:14
Habakkuk 1:4 comments on justice being paralyzed, whereas 1 Peter 2:14 suggests rulers are sent by God to punish evildoers, implying functional justice systems.
1 Peter 2:14: Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.
Paradox #1
Habakkuk 1:4 talks about the law being ignored and justice not being upheld. A potential contradiction or conflict could be the struggle between understanding a just and fair world versus witnessing injustice and wrongdoing going unpunished. It challenges the belief that good will always be rewarded and evil punished, raising questions about the nature of justice.