Contradiction with Proverbs 3:5
Nehemiah 8:10 emphasizes the joy of the Lord as strength, while Proverbs 3:5 encourages trust in the Lord rather than relying on joy or strength.
Proverbs 3:5: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 1:18
Nehemiah 8:10 promotes joy as strength, but Ecclesiastes 1:18 suggests that increased knowledge can bring grief, contrasting joy.
Ecclesiastes 1:18: For in much wisdom [is] much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:4
Nehemiah 8:10 emphasizes joy, while Matthew 5:4 says "Blessed are they that mourn," implying blessedness in sorrow rather than joy.
Matthew 5:4: Blessed [are] they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
Contradiction with James 4:9
Nehemiah 8:10 focuses on joy as strength, whereas James 4:9 advises turning joy into heaviness, contradicting the emphasis on joy.
James 4:9: Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and [your] joy to heaviness.
Contradiction with Psalm 90:10
Nehemiah 8:10 speaks of joy, while Psalm 90:10 refers to the labor and sorrow that fill our days, contrasting the idea of joy.
Psalm 90:10: The days of our years [are] threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength [they be] fourscore years, yet [is] their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away. [The days...: Heb. As for the days of our years, in them are seventy years]
Paradox #1
Nehemiah 8:10 encourages celebration and joy, saying that the joy of the Lord is your strength. A potential contradiction might be seen in how it emphasizes joy even during times of hardship or struggle. Some might feel that this focus on joy could overlook or minimize the reality of suffering, creating a tension between acknowledging pain and maintaining joy. However, this is subjective and open to interpretation.