Contradiction with John 9:25
Whereas Lamentations 4:14 speaks of wandering blind men, John 9:25 details a blind man who testifies of being healed by Jesus and having his sight restored.
John 9:25: He answered and said, Whether he be a sinner [or no], I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.
Contradiction with 1 John 1:7
Lamentations 4:14 describes being polluted with blood, while 1 John 1:7 speaks of the blood of Jesus Christ cleansing us from all sin.
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.
Contradiction with Psalm 32:8
Contrasting with the wandering described in Lamentations 4:14, Psalm 32:8 offers guidance and direction, indicating God's willingness to guide and instruct.
Psalm 32:8: I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. [guide...: Heb. counsel thee, mine eye shall be upon thee]
Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 5:7
Lamentations 4:14 talks about wandering as blind men, but 2 Corinthians 5:7 encourages living by faith, not by sight, suggesting a guided path even without physical sight.
2 Corinthians 5:7: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)
Contradiction with Isaiah 35:5
In opposition to the blindness in Lamentations 4:14, Isaiah 35:5 prophesies that the eyes of the blind shall be opened, foreseeing a time of healing rather than pollution.
Isaiah 35:5: Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped.
Contradiction with John 12:35
Though Lamentations 4:14 depicts aimlessness, John 12:35 encourages walking in light to avoid darkness and being lost.
John 12:35: Then Jesus said unto them, Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you: for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth.
Contradiction with Hebrews 13:12
Lamentations 4:14 refers to pollution with blood, whereas Hebrews 13:12 speaks of Jesus sanctifying people through His own blood, highlighting purification rather than defilement.
Hebrews 13:12: Wherefore Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered without the gate.
Paradox #1
Lamentations 4:14 describes a state of confusion and wandering, possibly implying that the consequences of sin lead to aimlessness and loss of direction. A potential contradiction or inconsistency might arise if one interprets this as conflicting with the idea that God provides guidance and direction to the faithful. However, this verse can be understood as highlighting the natural consequences of turning away from God, rather than a contradiction of His guidance. Overall, if properly understood within context, it aligns with the theme of reaping the consequences of one's actions. If you find this explanation doesn't address a specific perceived contradiction or inconsistency you are considering, it could be helpful to explore the broader context or consult theological commentaries for deeper insights.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in Lamentations 4:14 could be seen in the depiction of the priests and prophets who were supposed to be morally upright and guide others, yet are described as being unclean and acting in ways that lead people astray. This conflict lies in the expectation versus the reality of their actions—not living up to their roles of maintaining purity and moral conduct.