Contradictions and Paradoxes in Hosea 7:11

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Hosea 7:11 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Hosea 7:11. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Hosea, Ephraim is like a silly bird that doesn't know what to do; they keep asking for help from Egypt and Assyria instead of trusting God. This means they are not being wise and keep making choices that lead them away from God.

Hosea 7:11: Ephraim also is like a silly dove without heart: they call to Egypt, they go to Assyria.

Contradiction with Proverbs 13:16

While Hosea 7:11 describes Ephraim as a foolish dove without heart, Proverbs 13:16 states that every prudent man deals with knowledge, which contrasts Ephraim's lack of wisdom.

Proverbs 13:16: Every prudent [man] dealeth with knowledge: but a fool layeth open [his] folly. [layeth...: Heb. spreadeth]

Contradiction with Proverbs 14:8

This verse highlights the wisdom of the prudent in understanding their way, contradicting Ephraim’s lack of discernment and wisdom in Hosea 7:11.

Proverbs 14:8: The wisdom of the prudent [is] to understand his way: but the folly of fools [is] deceit.

Contradiction with James 1:5

Hosea 7:11 depicts Ephraim as lacking wisdom, whereas James 1:5 encourages seeking wisdom from God, who gives generously to those who ask.

James 1:5: If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all [men] liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

Contradiction with Proverbs 12:15

Ephraim is described as foolish in Hosea 7:11, yet Proverbs 12:15 says the wise listen to counsel, showcasing a contrasting attitude.

Proverbs 12:15: The way of a fool [is] right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel [is] wise.

Contradiction with Proverbs 1:7

Hosea 7:11 highlights foolishness, but Proverbs 1:7 emphasizes the fear of the Lord as the beginning of knowledge, implying foolishness is turning away from this starting point.

Proverbs 1:7: The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of knowledge: [but] fools despise wisdom and instruction. [the beginning: or, the principal part]

Paradox #1

The contradiction or inconsistency in Hosea 7:11 could be the portrayal of people as being foolish or lacking wisdom for seeking help from foreign powers instead of relying on God. On one hand, seeking alliances and aid from others can be seen as practical and necessary for survival, but on the other hand, the verse suggests this is naive or unwise because it implies a lack of faith or trust in God's protection. This creates a tension between practicality and spiritual loyalty.

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