Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 15:33
While Proverbs 13:20 warns that associating with fools can lead to harm, 1 Corinthians 15:33 states that bad company corrupts good morals, which seems to imply a more active negative influence rather than simply suffering harm.
1 Corinthians 15:33: Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.
Contradiction with Proverbs 12:15
Proverbs 13:20 emphasizes the wisdom of being in the company of the wise, while Proverbs 12:15 suggests that fools are solely guided by their own perspective, without the implication of harming others simply by association.
Proverbs 12:15: The way of a fool [is] right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel [is] wise.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 7:5
Proverbs 13:20 suggests harm from foolish companions, whereas Ecclesiastes 7:5 notes that receiving rebuke from the wise is better than hearing the song (or praise) of fools, emphasizing a valuation of wisdom over folly rather than the danger of association.
Ecclesiastes 7:5: [It is] better to hear the rebuke of the wise, than for a man to hear the song of fools.
Contradiction with James 1:19
Proverbs 13:20 implies danger in keeping company with fools, while James 1:19 emphasizes listening and patience in interaction, suggesting a different approach to handling foolish behavior without direct harm implied.
James 1:19: Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
Contradiction with Romans 12:21
While Proverbs 13:20 warns of harm from associating with fools, Romans 12:21 advocates overcoming evil with good, suggesting a proactive approach to countering negative influences instead of being harmed by them through association.
Romans 12:21: Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
Contradiction with Matthew 9:11-13
Proverbs 13:20 warns against the dangers of associating with fools, yet in Matthew 9:11-13, Jesus dines with tax collectors and sinners, emphasizing mercy and the potential for redemption rather than harm through association.
Matthew 9:11-13: And when the Pharisees saw [it], they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners?
Contradiction with Luke 15:2
Proverbs 13:20 advises against keeping company with fools, whereas in Luke 15:2, Jesus is criticized for welcoming sinners and eating with them, indicating an acceptance and outreach approach rather than a concern for harm from association.
Luke 15:2: And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.
Paradox #1
This verse implies that associating with wise people leads to wisdom, while keeping company with fools brings harm. A potential contradiction could arise if one believes that wisdom and goodness should come from within, regardless of external influences. This might conflict with the idea that one's moral character is heavily dependent on who they spend time with, rather than their own intrinsic values and choices.