Contradiction with 1 Samuel 15:22
This verse emphasizes obeying God's voice over sacrifices, similar to Proverbs 21:3, so there is no direct contradiction here.
1 Samuel 15:22: And Samuel said, Hath the LORD [as great] delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey [is] better than sacrifice, [and] to hearken than the fat of rams.
Contradiction with Isaiah 1:11
This verse dismisses the value of sacrifices when they are not paired with righteousness, aligning with the theme of Proverbs 21:3.
Isaiah 1:11: To what purpose [is] the multitude of your sacrifices unto me? saith the LORD: I am full of the burnt offerings of rams, and the fat of fed beasts; and I delight not in the blood of bullocks, or of lambs, or of he goats. [he goats: Heb. great he goats]
Contradiction with Hosea 6:6
Preferring mercy over sacrifice, this verse supports the idea of righteousness over offerings, similar to Proverbs 21:3.
Hosea 6:6: For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.
Contradiction with Matthew 9:13
Jesus emphasizes mercy over sacrifice, reflecting the same principle found in Proverbs 21:3.
Matthew 9:13: But go ye and learn what [that] meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
Contradiction with Amos 5:21-24
These verses highlight that God favors justice over ritualistic offerings, echoing the sentiment of Proverbs 21:3.
Amos 5:21-24: I hate, I despise your feast days, and I will not smell in your solemn assemblies. [in...: or, your holy days]
Paradox #1
The contradiction or conflict could be that while doing what is right and just is emphasized as most important, other parts of religious teachings often stress the significance of rituals, ceremonies, or sacrifices. This could lead to confusion about whether following rituals or taking righteous actions is more important.