Contradiction with Philippians 1:21
This verse expresses the positive perspective of both living and dying, in contrast to Jonah's despair.
Philippians 1:21: For to me to live [is] Christ, and to die [is] gain.
Contradiction with Psalm 118:17
This verse emphasizes life and not dying, which contradicts Jonah’s wish to die.
Psalm 118:17: I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
These verses highlight the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit, suggesting one should honor God with their body, implying a contradiction to wishing for death.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20: What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost [which is] in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
Contradiction with Romans 12:12
Encourages rejoicing in hope and patience in tribulation, which contrasts Jonah's despair.
Romans 12:12: Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;
Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 4:8-9
Speaks about not being crushed or in despair despite being troubled, opposing Jonah's feelings of hopelessness.
2 Corinthians 4:8-9: [We are] troubled on every side, yet not distressed; [we are] perplexed, but not in despair; [in despair: or, altogether without help, or, means]
Contradiction with John 16:33
Jesus speaks of having peace and good cheer in tribulations, which contrasts with Jonah's plea for death due to his troubles.
John 16:33: These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
Contradiction with 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Advises to rejoice always and give thanks in all circumstances, contradicting Jonah’s wish for death.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18: Rejoice evermore.
Contradiction with Psalm 23:4
Expresses comfort in the presence of death or evil, opposing Jonah's attitude.
Psalm 23:4: Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou [art] with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Contradiction with Romans 8:28
This verse speaks about all things working together for good, which contradicts Jonah’s desire for death due to his situation.
Romans 8:28: And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to [his] purpose.
Contradiction with James 1:2-3
Recommends finding joy in trials for the development of character, contrasting Jonah’s plea for death.
James 1:2-3: My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; [temptations: or, trials]
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in Jonah 4:3 could stem from Jonah's reaction to God's mercy. Jonah seems upset that God spared Nineveh after they repented, and he expresses a desire to die because of it. This can seem inconsistent with the idea that God is compassionate and desires mercy for all. If God shows mercy, why would Jonah, a prophet, be angry about it? It could conflict with the notion of celebrating God's mercy, rather than resenting it.
Paradox #2
One possible contradiction with Jonah 4:3 is that Jonah, a prophet, asks to die over God's decision to spare Nineveh, which seems inconsistent with a prophet's role as a messenger of God's will. Prophets typically align with God's desires, but Jonah's reaction here reflects personal conflict rather than submission.
Paradox #3
The possible contradiction in this verse could be related to the idea of valuing life. Jonah expresses a wish to die because he is upset that God showed mercy to Nineveh. This can seem inconsistent with the value of life and forgiveness that is usually emphasized in religious teachings, where life is sacred and mercy is a positive virtue. Jonah's desire to die just because he is unhappy with God's decision might appear at odds with these values.