Job 5:14 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to the author of the book of Job, this verse means that sometimes people feel lost and confused, just like it's dark outside, even when it's sunny and bright because they don't know the right way to go. It's like they're trying to find their way in the dark when they really need help to see clearly.

Contradiction with Proverbs 3:5-6

These verses promise that God will directly guide those who trust in Him, counter to the notion of confusion.

Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

Contradiction with John 8:12

Jesus declares that whoever follows Him will not walk in darkness, which contradicts the fate described in Job 5:14.

John 8:12: Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

Contradiction with Psalm 37:23-24

These verses speak of the Lord upholding and guiding a person, opposing the idea of confusion and stumbling.

Psalm 37:23-24: The steps of a [good] man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. [ordered: or, established]

Contradiction with Isaiah 42:16

God proclaims He will lead the blind in a way they do not know and turn darkness into light, contradicting the theme of wandering in darkness.

Isaiah 42:16: And I will bring the blind by a way [that] they knew not; I will lead them in paths [that] they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them. [straight: Heb. into straightness]

Contradiction with 1 John 1:7

If we walk in the light, as God is in the light, we have fellowship, which is contrary to being lost in darkness as in Job 5:14.

1 John 1:7: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

Paradox #1

Some might see a contradiction in the idea of people being "overcome by darkness" during the day, as darkness, in a literal sense, implies an absence of light which doesn't scientifically occur with the sun shining. However, metaphorically, this can be seen as confusion or ignorance, which science does not typically address in a literal sense.

Paradox #2

The contradiction or inconsistency might be the idea that people can become confused or misguided in their actions, even if they believe they are knowledgeable or wise. This could conflict with the belief that wisdom leads to clear and righteous paths. Some might see it as unfair or contradictory that those seeking knowledge could still end up in darkness or error.