Contradiction with Proverbs 27:6
While Proverbs 29:5 warns against flattery which is perceived as deceitful, Proverbs 27:6 values the wounds from a friend as faithful, implying that honesty is more valued than flattering words.
Proverbs 27:6: Faithful [are] the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy [are] deceitful. [deceitful: or, earnest, or, frequent]
Contradiction with Proverbs 28:23
Proverbs 29:5 suggests that flattery is positive, yet Proverbs 28:23 indicates that rebuke and correction will be appreciated more than flattery in the end.
Proverbs 28:23: He that rebuketh a man afterwards shall find more favour than he that flattereth with the tongue.
Contradiction with Proverbs 26:28
Proverbs 29:5 may imply flattery is favorable, but Proverbs 26:28 highlights that a flattering mouth works ruin, suggesting that flattery is often damaging.
Proverbs 26:28: A lying tongue hateth [those that are] afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.
Contradiction with Psalm 12:3
This verse contradicts Proverbs 29:5 by emphasizing that God will cut off flattering lips, suggesting disfavor towards flattery.
Psalm 12:3: The LORD shall cut off all flattering lips, [and] the tongue that speaketh proud things: [proud: Heb. great]
Contradiction with Job 32:21-22
Job expressly states he will not show favoritism or use flattery, whereas Proverbs 29:5 implies flattery might benefit the flatterer.
Job 32:21-22: Let me not, I pray you, accept any man's person, neither let me give flattering titles unto man.
Contradiction with Psalm 55:21
While Proverbs 29:5 discusses flattering neighbors, Psalm 55:21 portrays flattering words as deceitful and harmful like drawn swords.
Psalm 55:21: [The words] of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war [was] in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet [were] they drawn swords.
Paradox #1
This verse warns against flattery as being ultimately harmful to relationships and self-awareness. A potential contradiction arises when considering other teachings about kindness and encouragement, which may seem to advocate saying positive things to others. The conflict is between being honest and straightforward versus the potential for insincerity in trying to uplift someone, which can lead to misleading or trapping them.