Contradiction with Proverbs 13:4
Proverbs 13:4 emphasizes the reward for diligence, contrasting with Proverbs 26:16 which highlights the self-deceptive nature of a lazy person.
Proverbs 13:4: The soul of the sluggard desireth, and [hath] nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.
Contradiction with Proverbs 10:4
Proverbs 10:4 states that a diligent hand brings wealth, contradicting Proverbs 26:16 which portrays the sluggard as believing himself wiser than diligent people.
Proverbs 10:4: He becometh poor that dealeth [with] a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.
Contradiction with Proverbs 12:24
Proverbs 12:24 says the diligent will rule, contrasting the sluggard's self-perceived wisdom in Proverbs 26:16.
Proverbs 12:24: The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute. [slothful: or, deceitful]
Contradiction with Proverbs 21:5
Proverbs 21:5 values the plans of the diligent, which is opposite to the lazy man's self-satisfaction in Proverbs 26:16.
Proverbs 21:5: The thoughts of the diligent [tend] only to plenteousness; but of every one [that is] hasty only to want.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 10:18
Ecclesiastes 10:18 describes how laziness leads to decay, contradicting the sluggard’s perception in Proverbs 26:16.
Ecclesiastes 10:18: By much slothfulness the building decayeth; and through idleness of the hands the house droppeth through.
Paradox #1
The contradiction in Proverbs 26:16 could be seen as critiquing laziness or sloth. It suggests a conflict between self-perception and actual ability or knowledge. A lazy person may think they are wise, yet they are not. This could conflict with the idea of humility and self-awareness, where one should recognize their own limitations.