Contradiction with James 3:5-6
This passage emphasizes the destructive power of the tongue rather than suggesting it holds life and death, indicating a more negative aspect.
James 3:5-6: Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! [a matter: or, wood]
Contradiction with Matthew 15:11
This verse suggests that what comes out of the mouth does not defile a person, contrasting the idea that it holds power over life and death.
Matthew 15:11: Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 3:7
Highlights a time to keep silence, implying that speaking is not always associated with power over life and death, and sometimes silence is favorable.
Ecclesiastes 3:7: A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
Contradiction with Proverbs 10:19
Advises that in a multitude of words there is sin, suggesting restraint in speech rather than emphasizing the constructive power mentioned in Proverbs 18:21.
Proverbs 10:19: In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips [is] wise.
Contradiction with Proverbs 17:28
States that even a fool is considered wise when silent, implying silence is more beneficial than the powerful speech suggested in Proverbs 18:21.
Proverbs 17:28: Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: [and] he that shutteth his lips [is esteemed] a man of understanding.
Contradiction with James 1:19
Encourages being slow to speak, which contrasts with the active use of power suggested in Proverbs 18:21.
James 1:19: Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
Paradox #1
Proverbs 18:21 suggests that words have the power of life and death. Some might see a contradiction with the idea that only God has ultimate control over life and death. This could be seen as elevating the power of human speech to a divine level, possibly conflicting with the belief that God alone holds that authority.