Contradiction with Proverbs 1:7
Jeremiah 5:4 describes a lack of understanding and wisdom among the people, while Proverbs 1:7 states that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, implying the presence of wisdom for those who fear Him.
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]
Contradiction with Hosea 4:6
Jeremiah 5:4 suggests people are foolish due to a lack of knowledge, whereas Hosea 4:6 indicates that people are destroyed for lack of knowledge because they have rejected knowledge, implying that the availability of knowledge is not the issue.
Hosea 4:6: My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children. [destroyed: Heb. cut off]
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 1:27
Jeremiah 5:4 highlights the foolishness of the people, but 1 Corinthians 1:27 states that God chooses the foolish things of the world to confound the wise, presenting foolishness as potentially part of God’s plan rather than solely a negative trait.
1 Corinthians 1:27: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;
Paradox #1
Jeremiah 5:4 mentions how the people are foolish and lack understanding. A possible contradiction is that it seems to challenge the idea that all individuals have the inherent ability to understand and follow God’s teachings, which is implied in other parts of the Bible. This can create tension with the belief in free will and personal responsibility.
Paradox #2
Jeremiah 5:4 raises a moral conflict regarding judgment and understanding. It seems to imply a distinction between people based on knowledge or wisdom, suggesting that those lacking understanding are foolish or unworthy. This can be seen as inconsistent with the idea of compassion and equal value of all individuals.