Contradiction with Psalm 137:9
This verse encourages retributive violence, contrasting with Proverbs 25:21 which advises kindness to one's enemy.
Psalm 137:9: Happy [shall he be], that taketh and dasheth thy little ones against the stones. [the stones: Heb. the rock]
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
This verse actually supports Proverbs 25:21 by encouraging love for enemies, rather than contradicting it.
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 Exodus 21:24
This promotes "an eye for an eye" retribution, opposing the kindness advised in Proverbs 25:21.
Exodus 21:24: Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 19:21
This upholds the law of retaliation, which contrasts with the compassion suggested in Proverbs 25:21.
Deuteronomy 19:21: And thine eye shall not pity; [but] life [shall go] for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.
Contradiction with Leviticus 24:19-20
Advocates for equal retribution, contradicting the act of love described in Proverbs 25:21.
Leviticus 24:19-20: And if a man cause a blemish in his neighbour; as he hath done, so shall it be done to him;
Paradox #1
The verse suggests doing good to your enemies by providing for their needs. Some might see a contradiction with other parts of religious teachings that discuss justice or punishment for wrongdoers. It might seem inconsistent to promote kindness to those who have caused harm when other texts emphasize fairness or consequences.
Paradox #2
Some people might see a contradiction between this verse and the idea of justice or punishment for wrongdoers. It encourages kindness to enemies, which could seem different from the expectation of holding people accountable or seeking revenge. This can feel inconsistent if someone believes that wrong actions should lead to direct consequences or punishment.
Paradox #3
The contradiction could be seen in the idea of being kind to an enemy. Some might find it inconsistent with human instincts of self-defense or justice, where the expectation is to confront or distance oneself from those who do harm. This kindness might seem in conflict with the desire for fairness or retaliation.