Contradiction with Proverbs 21:5
Contradicts by suggesting that persistent diligence, rather than hastiness for treasures, leads to riches.
Proverbs 21:5: The thoughts of the diligent [tend] only to plenteousness; but of every one [that is] hasty only to want.
Contradiction with Proverbs 10:4
Contrasts with Proverbs 21:6 by implying that wealth is gained through hard work, rather than deceit.
Proverbs 10:4: He becometh poor that dealeth [with] a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.
Contradiction with Proverbs 13:11
Suggests wealth gained hastily, like deceitful treasures, will dwindle, opposing the idea of treasures being a benefit.
Proverbs 13:11: Wealth [gotten] by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase. [by labour: Heb. with the hand]
Contradiction with Proverbs 15:27
Highlights that dishonest gain brings trouble, contradicting the idea of treasures being valuable.
Proverbs 15:27: He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.
Contradiction with Ephesians 4:28
Encourages working with one's hands for gain, opposing the deceitful means of obtaining treasures.
Ephesians 4:28: Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with [his] hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. [to give: or, to distribute]
Contradiction with Proverbs 11:18
States that the wicked earns deceitful wages, in contrast to seeking lasting value from ill-gotten gains.
Proverbs 11:18: The wicked worketh a deceitful work: but to him that soweth righteousness [shall be] a sure reward.
Paradox #1
Proverbs 21:6 seems to focus on the importance of honesty and warns against acquiring wealth through dishonest means. A potential theological conflict could arise when one considers other biblical stories where wealth or success seems to come through less than straightforward methods, and yet those actions are sometimes justified or forgiven within the larger narrative. This might seem inconsistent to some readers who are trying to apply the principle universally. However, it's important to understand these stories in their broader context within the Bible.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or inconsistency in this verse could be seen in the emphasis on moral conduct versus the rewards of material wealth. It warns against obtaining wealth through dishonest means, suggesting a conflict between the pursuit of riches and maintaining honesty and integrity. This highlights the tension between worldly success and ethical behavior.