Contradiction with Proverbs 17:17
Proverbs 17:17 states that a friend loves at all times, suggesting consistency in friendship, whereas Proverbs 18:24 implies that not all friendships are as dependable.
Proverbs 17:17: A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
Contradiction with Proverbs 27:6
Proverbs 27:6 suggests that the wounds of a friend are faithful, indicating trust in friendships, which can contrast with the idea in Proverbs 18:24 of unreliable friendships.
Proverbs 27:6: Faithful [are] the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy [are] deceitful. [deceitful: or, earnest, or, frequent]
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 emphasizes the benefits of companionship and mutual support, contrasting with the notion in Proverbs 18:24 that some friends may bring ruin.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10: Two [are] better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour.
Contradiction with Psalm 41:9
Psalm 41:9 speaks of betrayal by a close friend, which highlights the reality of untrustworthy friends mentioned in Proverbs 18:24.
Psalm 41:9: Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up [his] heel against me. [mine...: Heb. the man of my peace] [lifted...: Heb. magnified]
Contradiction with John 15:13
John 15:13 speaks of the ultimate sacrifice of love from a friend, suggesting a greater sense of trust and sacrifice that might contradict the warning about unreliable friends in Proverbs 18:24.
John 15:13: Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Paradox #1
One possible contradiction is that it suggests having many friends isn't beneficial, emphasizing the quality of friends over quantity. However, other parts of the Bible highlight the importance of community and fellowship, which can seem inconsistent if interpreted as valuing numerous relationships.