Contradiction with 1 Timothy 6:17
This verse urges the rich not to trust in uncertain riches, which contrasts with the theme of safety or profit through wealth implied in Proverbs 11:4.
1 Timothy 6:17: Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; [uncertain...: Gr. uncertainty of riches]
Contradiction with Proverbs 10:15
This proverb suggests that wealth is a form of protection, contrasting with the idea in Proverbs 11:4 that riches do not profit in times of judgment.
Proverbs 10:15: The rich man's wealth [is] his strong city: the destruction of the poor [is] their poverty.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 10:19
This verse states that money answers all things, which stands in opposition to the assertion that riches are unprofitable in the context of divine judgment in Proverbs 11:4.
Ecclesiastes 10:19: A feast is made for laughter, and wine maketh merry: but money answereth all [things]. [maketh...: Heb. maketh glad the life]
Contradiction with Luke 16:9
Advises using worldly wealth to gain friends so that one may be welcomed into eternal dwellings, implying utility of riches, contrasting with the futility presented in Proverbs 11:4.
Luke 16:9: And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations. [mammon: or, riches]
Contradiction with Proverbs 18:11
Describes wealth as a strong city in the imagination of the rich, suggesting a sense of security that contradicts the claim in Proverbs 11:4.
Proverbs 18:11: The rich man's wealth [is] his strong city, and as an high wall in his own conceit.
Paradox #1
Proverbs 11:4 suggests that wealth is useless on the day of judgment, highlighting the importance of righteousness over material wealth. The theological tension may arise when contrasted with other biblical passages that associate wealth with blessing or reward from God. These apparent contradictions could cause questions about the role and value of wealth in a believer's life, potentially leading to differing interpretations on whether wealth is inherently neutral, a blessing, or something to be wary of.
Paradox #2
Proverbs 11:4 implies that wealth cannot save a person in the face of divine judgment or moral accountability. The contradiction or conflict might arise from the idea that in some passages or contexts, wealth is sometimes seen as a blessing from God or a sign of favor. This could be seen as inconsistent since one part suggests wealth has limited value, while other parts imply it has significant value.