Contradiction with Proverbs 13:11
Proverbs 12:11 emphasizes labor and diligent work for sustenance, while Proverbs 13:11 warns that wealth gained hastily or dishonestly will dwindle, implying that diligent labor is the preferred way contrary to quick gains.
Proverbs 13:11: Wealth [gotten] by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase. [by labour: Heb. with the hand]
Contradiction with Proverbs 21:17
Proverbs 12:11 values working the land and sustaining oneself, whereas Proverbs 21:17 suggests that one who loves pleasure and indulgence may neglect such diligence, leading to poverty rather than abundance.
Proverbs 21:17: He that loveth pleasure [shall be] a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich. [pleasure: or, sport]
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 5:10
Proverbs 12:11 praises hard work leading to satisfaction with one's resources, but Ecclesiastes 5:10 implies that loving wealth leads to a lack of satisfaction and fulfillment, highlighting a potential dissatisfaction from constant pursuit despite hard work.
Ecclesiastes 5:10: He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this [is] also vanity.
Paradox #1
The potential inconsistency in Proverbs 12:11 could relate to its emphasis on the value of hard work and productivity, which might seem to conflict with other biblical passages that focus on faith, grace, or divine provision as key aspects of a righteous life. Some might view this as prioritizing human effort over spiritual matters. However, many believe that both messages are compatible, suggesting that diligent work and spiritual faith together contribute to a well-rounded and fulfilling life.
Paradox #2
Proverbs 12:11 generally promotes the value of hard work and warns against chasing fantasies. A potential contradiction could arise if someone interprets this to suggest that only traditional labor has value, dismissing creative or innovative pursuits as unworthy. This could conflict with the idea that diverse types of work, including those that might not seem practical initially, have their own merit and can contribute positively to society.