Contradiction with James 1:22
This verse contradicts Isaiah 58:2 by emphasizing the need to be doers of the word, not just hearers, while Isaiah 58:2 describes people who seek God daily and delight in knowing His ways but do not follow through with righteous actions.
James 1:22: But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
Contradiction with Matthew 15:8
This verse contrasts with Isaiah 58:2 by highlighting how people honor God with their lips while their hearts are far from Him, implying a superficial seeking, similar to what is described in Isaiah 58:2.
Matthew 15:8: This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with [their] lips; but their heart is far from me.
Contradiction with Ezekiel 33:31
The contradiction here is that whereas Isaiah 58:2 speaks of seeking God, Ezekiel describes people who show devotion outwardly but in their hearts pursue dishonest gain, questioning the genuineness of their pursuit.
Ezekiel 33:31: And they come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee [as] my people, and they hear thy words, but they will not do them: for with their mouth they shew much love, [but] their heart goeth after their covetousness. [as the...: Heb. according to the coming of the people] [they sit...: or, my people sit before thee] [they shew...: Heb. they make loves, or, jests]
Contradiction with Micah 3:11
Isaiah 58:2 showcases people seeking God and delighting in His ways, yet Micah 3:11 describes leaders who lean on the Lord while practicing injustice, indicating a hypocrisy in their spiritual practices.
Micah 3:11: The heads thereof judge for reward, and the priests thereof teach for hire, and the prophets thereof divine for money: yet will they lean upon the LORD, and say, [Is] not the LORD among us? none evil can come upon us. [and say: Heb. saying]
Paradox #1
The verse in question might be seen as contradicting the behavior of some who are religiously observant but lack genuine commitment or ethical conduct. Historically, this points to the tension between outward religious rituals and inward sincerity. Some may perform religious acts without true devotion or justice, leading to a conflict between appearance and reality in faith practices.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction found in this verse could be the inconsistency between seeking God and engaging in religious rituals without truly following His teachings or intentions. People might appear to be devout on the outside but may not live according to the values and actions that truly reflect their faith.