Contradiction with Exodus 23:8
This verse states that a gift blinds the wise and perverts the words of the righteous, contradicting with Proverbs 17:8, which suggests that a gift is favorable in the eyes of its receiver.
Exodus 23:8: And thou shalt take no gift: for the gift blindeth the wise, and perverteth the words of the righteous. [the wise: Heb. the seeing]
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 16:19
This verse emphasizes that gifts corrupt judgment and pervert the words of the righteous, contradicting Proverbs 17:8's suggestion of a gift bringing prosperity.
Deuteronomy 16:19: Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous. [words: or, matters]
Contradiction with Proverbs 15:27
This verse warns that he who hates gifts shall live, contradicting Proverbs 17:8's concept of gifts as prosperity.
Proverbs 15:27: He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 7:7
This verse claims that a gift destroys the heart, contradicting Proverbs 17:8's portrayal of gifts as favorable.
Ecclesiastes 7:7: Surely oppression maketh a wise man mad; and a gift destroyeth the heart.
Paradox #1
This verse can be seen as morally contradictory because it seems to suggest that a bribe can have power and effectiveness, which might imply that using bribes is acceptable. However, other parts of the Bible condemn bribery and corruption, leading to inconsistency in ethical guidance.