Contradiction with James 3:8
While Proverbs 16:21 emphasizes the power of wise and pleasant words, James 3:8 highlights the uncontrollable and deadly nature of the tongue, suggesting that words can also be harmful and destructive.
James 3:8: But the tongue can no man tame; [it is] an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 1:18
Proverbs 16:21 values increased learning for wise words, whereas Ecclesiastes 1:18 claims increased wisdom and knowledge bring sorrow and grief, contrasting the benefits of learning implied in Proverbs 16:21.
Ecclesiastes 1:18: For in much wisdom [is] much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow.
Contradiction with Matthew 10:34
Proverbs 16:21 praises promoting peace through wisdom, but Matthew 10:34 has Jesus stating he came to bring not peace but a sword, indicating a deliberate disruption of peace.
Matthew 10:34: Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 1:19
While Proverbs 16:21 promotes wise speech for its value, 1 Corinthians 1:19 speaks of God destroying the wisdom of the wise, questioning the enduring value of human wisdom.
1 Corinthians 1:19: For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 3:18-19
Proverbs 16:21 exalts wise speech as virtuous, while 1 Corinthians 3:18-19 portrays worldly wisdom as folly in God’s sight, critiquing reliance on human wisdom alone.
1 Corinthians 3:18-19: Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise.