Proverbs 23:16 Contradictions and Paradoxes

Contradiction with James 3:8

James 3:8 describes the tongue as unruly and full of deadly poison, contrasting with the idea of a heart rejoicing in what the tongue speaks positively in Proverbs 23:16.

James 3:8: But the tongue can no man tame; [it is] an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.

Contradiction with Matthew 15:18-19

These verses highlight how things that proceed from the mouth can defile a person, contradicting the notion of the tongue contributing to the heart's joy as suggested in Proverbs 23:16.

Matthew 15:18-19: But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.

Contradiction with Proverbs 10:19

Proverbs 10:19 suggests that in the multitude of words sin is not lacking, which contradicts the idea that speech can be purely positive and cause the heart to rejoice as in Proverbs 23:16.

Proverbs 10:19: In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips [is] wise.

Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 5:2

Ecclesiastes 5:2 advises against speaking rashly, which contrasts with the notion of rejoicing in speech as expressed in Proverbs 23:16.

Ecclesiastes 5:2: Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter [any] thing before God: for God [is] in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few. [thing: or, word]

Contradiction with Isaiah 29:13

This verse speaks about people honoring God with their lips but having hearts far from Him, contradicting the unity of heart and speech mentioned in Proverbs 23:16.

Isaiah 29:13: Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near [me] with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:

Contradiction with Matthew 12:36-37

These verses warn about every idle word being accountable on Judgment Day, which contrasts with the idea of joyful speech cited in Proverbs 23:16.