Contradiction with Proverbs 10:6
Proverbs 10:6 speaks of blessings upon the righteous, contrasting with Habakkuk 2:12's declaration of woe for those who build a city with bloodshed, suggesting two different outcomes for actions.
Proverbs 10:6: Blessings [are] upon the head of the just: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 29:7
Jeremiah 29:7 advises seeking the peace of the city for personal peace, whereas Habakkuk 2:12 condemns building a city with blood, implying differing views on urban development.
Jeremiah 29:7: And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the LORD for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:9
Matthew 5:9 blesses peacemakers, contrasting with Habakkuk 2:12's woe to those who create a city by iniquity, underscoring peace over conflict.
Matthew 5:9: Blessed [are] the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
Contradiction with Romans 13:4
Romans 13:4 speaks of rulers being God's servants for good, potentially contradicting Habakkuk's view of rulers who build with bloodshed, showing an ideal versus reality contrast.
Romans 13:4: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to [execute] wrath upon him that doeth evil.
Contradiction with Psalm 127:1
Psalm 127:1 emphasizes reliance on the Lord to build a house, conflicting with Habakkuk 2:12, which highlights human-driven construction through bloodshed, pointing out different foundations for success.
Psalm 127:1: [A Song of degrees for Solomon.] Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh [but] in vain. [for...: or, of Solomon] [that...: Heb. that are builders of it in it]
Paradox #1
The verse comments on the consequences of building a society through unjust means, like violence or exploitation. A contradiction could arise when looking at the history of different societies or kingdoms that became powerful and prosperous despite these means. While the verse warns against building with injustice, history shows instances where empires flourished even with moral questionable practices, leading to questions about the directness of such consequences.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in Habakkuk 2:12 lies in its critique of building prosperity through violence and injustice. The conflict arises when societies or individuals claim to follow moral or religious teachings, yet engage in harmful or unethical practices to gain power or wealth. This inconsistency highlights the difference between professed values and actual behavior.