Contradiction with Matthew 6:19-20
While Proverbs 23:5 warns against seeking wealth, Matthew 6:19-20 advises storing treasures in heaven, emphasizing spiritual wealth over earthly wealth.
Matthew 6:19-20: Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 6:17
Unlike Proverbs 23:5's caution against the fleeting nature of riches, 1 Timothy 6:17 suggests that God provides us with riches for enjoyment, offering a more positive view on wealth.
1 Timothy 6:17: Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; [uncertain...: Gr. uncertainty of riches]
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 5:19
Proverbs 23:5 warns of the fleeting nature of wealth, whereas Ecclesiastes 5:19 presents wealth as a gift from God that should be enjoyed.
Ecclesiastes 5:19: Every man also to whom God hath given riches and wealth, and hath given him power to eat thereof, and to take his portion, and to rejoice in his labour; this [is] the gift of God.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 28:11-12
Proverbs 23:5 emphasizes the temporary nature of riches, while Deuteronomy 28:11-12 promises material prosperity as a sign of God's blessing for obedience.
Deuteronomy 28:11-12: And the LORD shall make thee plenteous in goods, in the fruit of thy body, and in the fruit of thy cattle, and in the fruit of thy ground, in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers to give thee. [in goods: or, for good] [body: Heb. belly]
Contradiction with Proverbs 10:22
In contrast to Proverbs 23:5's warning about wealth, Proverbs 10:22 states that the blessing of the Lord brings wealth, indicating that wealth is a positive gift from God.
Proverbs 10:22: The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.
Contradiction with Genesis 13:2
Proverbs 23:5 discusses the temporary nature of wealth, whereas Genesis 13:2 describes Abraham as very rich and blessed, highlighting wealth as a sign of God's favor.
Genesis 13:2: And Abram [was] very rich in cattle, in silver, and in gold.
Paradox #1
This verse talks about wealth and how it can disappear quickly. A potential conflict might be with other parts of the Bible that speak of wealth as a blessing from God. Some might see this as inconsistent, as one part warns against chasing wealth, and another suggests wealth can be a reward. However, it can be understood that the Bible encourages a balanced view, where wealth is not inherently bad but should not be the main focus of life.
Paradox #2
Proverbs 23:5 suggests that wealth can quickly disappear. The contradiction might arise if another part of the Bible emphasizes storing wealth or God's blessings as a sign of favor. This could conflict with the idea that wealth is temporary and uncertain.