Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 8:15
Encourages enjoyment and merriment, which can include eating and drinking, in contrast to the caution in Proverbs 23:21 against excess leading to poverty.
Ecclesiastes 8:15: Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun.
Contradiction with Matthew 11:19
Depicts Jesus being criticized for eating and drinking, suggesting acceptance of such behaviors, which contrasts with the warning about winebibbers and gluttons in Proverbs 23:21.
Matthew 11:19: The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children.
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 5:23
Advises using a little wine for health, which could be seen as contradictory to the warning against drunkenness in Proverbs 23:21.
1 Timothy 5:23: Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities.
Paradox #1
Proverbs 23:21 mentions the negative consequences of excessive drinking and gluttony. Some people might see a contradiction because the Bible also includes stories that involve feasting and enjoying wine, suggesting moderation is acceptable. The inconsistency could arise in understanding where to draw the line between moderation and excess.
Paradox #2
Proverbs 23:21 warns against drunkenness and gluttony, suggesting they lead to poverty or downfall. Some might see a contradiction with the idea of God providing abundance or the enjoyment of good things in life, as seen in other biblical passages. However, this verse focuses on the negative consequences of excessive behavior rather than moderate enjoyment. Therefore, potential contradictions arise in interpreting the balance between enjoying God's gifts and avoiding excess.
Paradox #3
Proverbs 23:21 warns against excessive drinking and gluttony, suggesting these lead to poverty. A possible contradiction could be the celebration of feasting and wine in other parts of the Bible, where they are seen as blessings and a part of joyous gatherings. This might seem inconsistent because while one part warns against overindulgence, another part celebrates enjoyment.