Contradiction with Proverbs 15:13
Nehemiah 2:2 speaks of Nehemiah’s sadness of heart, while Proverbs 15:13 suggests a merry heart makes a cheerful countenance, implying that one's internal feelings should reflect outwardly in joy, not sadness.
Proverbs 15:13: A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.
Contradiction with Philippians 4:4
Nehemiah 2:2 describes Nehemiah’s sorrowful state, whereas Philippians 4:4 encourages believers to always rejoice in the Lord, contradicting the expression of sadness.
Philippians 4:4: Rejoice in the Lord alway: [and] again I say, Rejoice.
Contradiction with 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Nehemiah 2:2 portrays an emotional burden, while 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 instructs continual joy and thanksgiving regardless of circumstances.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18: Rejoice evermore.
Contradiction with John 14:1
Nehemiah 2:2 captures a troubled spirit, whereas John 14:1 reflects Jesus commanding not to let hearts be troubled, suggesting an opposition to such feelings.
John 14:1: Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.
Paradox #1
One possible historical inconsistency in Nehemiah 2:2 could be that the timeline for Nehemiah's mission to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem doesn't align perfectly with historical records of Persian kings' reigns. There is debate among scholars about the exact years these events took place, which can lead to confusion about the historical accuracy.