Contradiction with Proverbs 25:9
This verse advises to debate thy cause with thy neighbor directly, which encourages open confrontation, unlike Proverbs 17:9 which promotes covering transgressions.
Proverbs 25:9: Debate thy cause with thy neighbour [himself]; and discover not a secret to another: [a secret...: or, the secret of]
Contradiction with Matthew 18:15
This verse instructs to confront a brother who sins against you directly in private, encouraging addressing wrongdoing rather than covering it.
Matthew 18:15: Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.
Contradiction with Leviticus 19:17
This verse suggests that you should not hate your brother in your heart and should rebuke your neighbor to avoid sharing in their guilt, which contrasts with the idea of covering transgressions.
Leviticus 19:17: Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him. [and...: or, that thou bear not sin for him]
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 5:12-13
These verses emphasize the importance of judging those within the church, which implies addressing and exposing sins rather than covering them.
1 Corinthians 5:12-13: For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within?
Paradox #1
Proverbs 17:9 emphasizes forgiving and covering offenses to promote love and friendship, but this can conflict with the need for justice and accountability. Forgiving too easily might allow harmful behavior to go unchecked, potentially enabling wrongdoing. Balancing forgiveness with justice can create a moral inconsistency.