Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 8:14
This verse observes that righteous people get what the wicked deserve, and wicked people get what the righteous deserve, suggesting that following righteousness may not always lead to a straight or easy path as Proverbs 22:5 implies.
Ecclesiastes 8:14: There is a vanity which is done upon the earth; that there be just [men], unto whom it happeneth according to the work of the wicked; again, there be wicked [men], to whom it happeneth according to the work of the righteous: I said that this also [is] vanity.
Contradiction with Job 21:7
It questions why the wicked often live long and prosperous lives, directly contradicting the idea that the way of transgressors is hard.
Job 21:7: Wherefore do the wicked live, become old, yea, are mighty in power?
Contradiction with Psalm 73:3-5
These verses express envy of the prosperity of the wicked, noting they are not in trouble as others are, which seems to oppose the notion that transgressors face thorns and snares.
Psalm 73:3-5: For I was envious at the foolish, [when] I saw the prosperity of the wicked.
Paradox #1
One potential contradiction in the interpretation of this verse could be the idea that it suggests a direct correlation between one’s choices and negative outcomes, implying that all suffering is self-inflicted. This perspective might overlook situations where people face hardships due to circumstances beyond their control, such as systemic injustice or natural disasters, thus not accounting for innocent suffering.