Contradiction with Proverbs 19:4
While Proverbs 14:20 mentions the poor being despised, Proverbs 19:4 suggests that wealth makes many friends regardless of the poor's status, highlighting a disparity in social treatment based on wealth.
Proverbs 19:4: Wealth maketh many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbour.
Contradiction with James 2:5
Proverbs 14:20 implies the poor are forsaken by friends, while James 2:5 contradicts this by stating that God has chosen the poor who are rich in faith to be heirs of the kingdom, emphasizing their value.
James 2:5: Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? [of the: or, of that]
Contradiction with Proverbs 19:7
Proverbs 14:20 talks about the poor being hated by their neighbors, while Proverbs 19:7 says the poor are pursued by relatives but not always for good, showing a nuanced relationship rather than outright disdain.
Proverbs 19:7: All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him? he pursueth [them with] words, [yet] they [are] wanting [to him].
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in this verse is that it highlights social injustice, where a poor person may not be valued and a rich person is often admired, which seems unfair. This appears inconsistent with other teachings in the Bible that emphasize fairness, equality, and the importance of valuing all people regardless of wealth.
Paradox #2
The possible contradiction or conflict with Proverbs 14:20 could relate to teachings about wealth and treatment of others. Other parts of the Bible, like the teachings of Jesus, emphasize loving and serving the poor or being wary of favoring the rich. This verse might seem to highlight the social reality where the poor are often disregarded and the rich are favored, which could conflict with biblical ideals of equality and love for all people.
Paradox #3
Proverbs 14:20 might highlight the contradiction of valuing people based on their wealth rather than their character. It suggests that society often favors the wealthy and neglects the poor, which can conflict with moral teachings about equality and kindness to all individuals, regardless of their financial status.