Contradiction with Genesis 6:5
It states that every imagination of the thoughts of man's heart was only evil continually, whereas Jeremiah 4:14 encourages a cleansing of the heart from wickedness, implying it is possible to choose good thoughts.
Genesis 6:5: And GOD saw that the wickedness of man [was] great in the earth, and [that] every imagination of the thoughts of his heart [was] only evil continually. [every...: or, the whole imagination: the Hebrew word signifieth not only the imagination, but also the purposes and desires] [continually: Heb. every day]
Contradiction with Proverbs 28:26
Highlights that trusting one's heart is foolish, contradicting Jeremiah 4:14, which promotes cleansing the heart, suggesting solvable and worthwhile trust in one's inner self.
Proverbs 28:26: He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 17:9
Describes the heart as deceitful and desperately wicked, contesting the idea in Jeremiah 4:14 that the heart can be purified from wickedness.
Jeremiah 17:9: The heart [is] deceitful above all [things], and desperately wicked: who can know it?
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 9:3
Declares that the heart of the sons of men is full of evil and madness is in their heart while they live, contrasting with the implication in Jeremiah 4:14 that a pure heart can be achieved.
Ecclesiastes 9:3: This [is] an evil among all [things] that are done under the sun, that [there is] one event unto all: yea, also the heart of the sons of men is full of evil, and madness [is] in their heart while they live, and after that [they go] to the dead.
Paradox #1
Jeremiah 4:14 calls for inner purification and a genuine turning away from evil thoughts to achieve salvation. A contradiction might arise if someone perceives this instruction as overly harsh or unattainable, feeling that thoughts alone shouldn't determine moral value if they lead to no action. However, this interpretation can vary greatly among different readers.