Contradictions and Paradoxes in Proverbs 17:20

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Proverbs 17:20 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Proverbs 17:20. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Solomon, a person who thinks or acts in a naughty or mean way doesn't find happiness, and someone who says bad or tricky things gets into trouble. It’s like when you're unfriendly and say mean things, and then things don’t go well for you.

Proverbs 17:20: He that hath a froward heart findeth no good: and he that hath a perverse tongue falleth into mischief. [He that hath a froward...: Heb. The froward of heart]

Contradiction with Proverbs 16:7

While Proverbs 17:20 suggests that someone with a perverse heart will not find good, Proverbs 16:7 states that when a man's ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him, suggesting a more direct link between righteous behavior and positive outcomes.

Proverbs 16:7: When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.

Contradiction with Psalms 34:14

Proverbs 17:20 mentions the consequences of having a perverse heart, whereas Psalms 34:14 advises to depart from evil and do good with the promise of peace, implying a clear path to positive results through good behavior.

Psalms 34:14: Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:9

Proverbs 17:20 indicates that those with a perverse heart do not find good, but Matthew 5:9 states, "Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God," emphasizing the blessings and good that come from being a peacemaker.

Matthew 5:9: Blessed [are] the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

Contradiction with James 3:18

While Proverbs 17:20 expresses that a froward tongue falls into mischief, James 3:18 highlights the fruit of righteousness being sown in peace, underscoring the positive outcomes of pursuing peace rather than having a perverse heart.

James 3:18: And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.

Paradox #1

This verse suggests that having a deceitful heart or tongue leads to trouble. A possible contradiction is that elsewhere in the Bible, God uses individuals who are flawed or deceitful for his purposes, demonstrating mercy and forgiveness. This might seem inconsistent with the idea that a deceitful heart always leads to negative outcomes.

Paradox #2

It might seem like a contradiction if someone interprets the verse as suggesting that bad actions are always caused by a bad heart, while in reality, people with good intentions can sometimes make mistakes. This could seem unfair or overly simplistic.

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