Contradiction with Proverbs 25:21-22
These verses encourage showing kindness to enemies by feeding them, which contradicts the idea of not rejoicing at the downfall of your enemy—suggesting instead to act positively toward them.
Proverbs 25:21-22: If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Jesus instructs to love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, which contradicts merely not rejoicing at their downfall; this verse promotes active love rather than passive reaction.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with Romans 12:20
Echoing Proverbs 25, the verse advises feeding your enemy if he is hungry, moving beyond merely not taking pleasure in their struggles to actively assisting them.
Romans 12:20: Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
Contradiction with Exodus 23:4-5
These verses command helping your enemy when their property is in trouble, which contrasts with the passive non-rejoicing and suggests positive intervention.
Exodus 23:4-5: If thou meet thine enemy's ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again.
Paradox #1
The concept in Proverbs 24:17 could seem to conflict with other biblical teachings that highlight love and forgiveness even for enemies. For instance, while this proverb advises against feeling joy at an enemy's downfall, other parts of the Bible emphasize forgiveness and love for enemies, as seen in the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament. This may appear inconsistent to some readers as it seems to emphasize restraint without actively promoting love and forgiveness.
Paradox #2
Proverbs 24:17 might seem to contradict the idea of justice or retribution found elsewhere in the Bible. While some passages encourage rejoicing in justice being served, this verse advises against celebrating another person's misfortune, even if they are your enemy. This can seem inconsistent with the human desire for vindication when wronged, but it ultimately emphasizes compassion and humility over personal satisfaction.
Paradox #3
Proverbs 24:17 advises against rejoicing when an enemy falls. The potential contradiction or inconsistency might arise when comparing it to other biblical passages where enemies' defeat is celebrated, such as in some Psalms or stories of victories in battles where God's intervention is praised. This could create a tension between the idea of showing restraint and celebrating justice or divine retribution.
Paradox #4
Proverbs 24:17 advises against rejoicing when your enemy falls. The contradiction or conflict here could be seen in the larger context of some biblical narratives that describe celebrating victories over enemies, implying divine justice or favor. This might seem inconsistent with the advice to refrain from gloating over an enemy's downfall.