Contradiction with 1 Timothy 6:17
This verse advises those who are rich in this world not to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, implying that having wealth is not inherently negative, which contrasts with the request to remove “riches” from life in Proverbs 30:8.
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 Proverbs 10:22
States that the blessing of the Lord brings wealth without painful toil for it, suggesting that riches can be seen as a blessing, whereas Proverbs 30:8 asks to be kept from riches.
Proverbs 10:22: The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 5:19
Declares that it is a gift from God for a man to enjoy wealth and possessions, differing from the sentiment in Proverbs 30:8 to remove riches from one’s life.
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 Philippians 4:19
Promises that God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus, indicating that riches can be part of God's provision, which is contrary to the plea against riches in Proverbs 30:8.
Philippians 4:19: But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Paradox #1
Proverbs 30:8 could be seen as contradictory if compared with other biblical teachings that emphasize God's blessings often manifesting as wealth and prosperity. While this verse suggests a desire for neither poverty nor riches, other parts of the Bible imply that wealth can be a sign of God's favor. This could create a tension between valuing humility and seeking prosperity.
Paradox #2
One possible contradiction is the idea of asking not for poverty or riches. In other parts of the Bible, wealth is sometimes seen as a blessing from God, like in the stories of Abraham and Solomon. This could seem inconsistent because here, the focus is on living a life without extremes of wealth or poverty.
Paradox #3
Proverbs 30:8 expresses a desire for a balanced life, avoiding both poverty and wealth. A possible contradiction might arise when this desire is compared to other teachings in religious texts that either glorify poverty as a sign of humility and reliance on faith or view wealth as a blessing and reward. This can create tension in interpreting how one should live, whether to seek a middle ground or adhere more strictly to one of the extremes.