Contradiction with Matthew 5:4
This verse contradicts Jeremiah 16:5 as it offers a blessing to those who mourn, implying it is virtuous to partake in mourning, whereas Jeremiah speaks against attending mourning ceremonies.
Matthew 5:4: Blessed [are] they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 3:4
This verse suggests that there is “a time to mourn,” which implies mourning is a natural and necessary part of life, contradicting Jeremiah 16:5, which forbids mourning.
Ecclesiastes 3:4: A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
Contradiction with Romans 12:15
This verse instructs believers to "weep with them that weep," advocating empathy and participation in others' sorrow, contrary to the message in Jeremiah 16:5.
Romans 12:15: Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.
Contradiction with John 11:35
Jesus wept at Lazarus’ tomb, showing he participated in mourning, which contradicts the directive not to mourn in Jeremiah 16:5.
John 11:35: Jesus wept.
Contradiction with 1 Thessalonians 4:13
This verse acknowledges that Christians do mourn but not without hope, which contrasts with the prohibition in Jeremiah 16:5.
1 Thessalonians 4:13: But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.
Paradox #1
Jeremiah 16:5 could be seen as contradictory if compared to other parts of the Bible where God is portrayed as compassionate and encouraging mourning for the dead, such as in the Beatitudes in the New Testament, which bless those who mourn. This could seem inconsistent because on one hand, God encourages mourning, while here it is discouraged.
Paradox #2
Jeremiah 16:5 could be seen as conflicting with the Bible's broader themes of compassion and mourning. In this verse, God instructs not to mourn or show sympathy for the people. This might seem inconsistent with teachings that emphasize empathy and mourning with those who mourn, like in the New Testament. This contradiction can be perplexing because it seems to go against the usual encouragement of compassion found in other parts of the Bible.
Paradox #3
The potential contradiction in Jeremiah 16:5 could be seen in its instruction to avoid mourning or showing sympathy, which might conflict with the general moral teaching of showing compassion and empathy towards others in their times of grief. This can appear inconsistent with broader themes of kindness and support found elsewhere in the Bible.