Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 1:18
Proverbs 4:7 emphasizes pursuing wisdom, but Ecclesiastes 1:18 suggests that increased wisdom can also bring grief and sorrow.
Ecclesiastes 1:18: For in much wisdom [is] much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 3:19
Proverbs 4:7 encourages obtaining wisdom, yet 1 Corinthians 3:19 states that the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God.
1 Corinthians 3:19: For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 12:12
Proverbs 4:7 advocates for getting wisdom, while Ecclesiastes 12:12 warns that excessive study is wearisome and endless, implying limitation.
Ecclesiastes 12:12: And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books [there is] no end; and much study [is] a weariness of the flesh. [study: or, reading]
Contradiction with Job 28:12-13
Proverbs 4:7 promotes acquiring wisdom, but Job 28:12-13 questions where wisdom can truly be found, suggesting it's elusive.
Job 28:12-13: But where shall wisdom be found? and where [is] the place of understanding?
Contradiction with James 3:15
Proverbs 4:7 prioritizes wisdom, whereas James 3:15 distinguishes between earthly, unspiritual wisdom and wisdom from above, marking earthly wisdom as misleading.
James 3:15: This wisdom descendeth not from above, but [is] earthly, sensual, devilish. [sensual: or, natural]
Paradox #1
Proverbs 4:7 emphasizes the importance of wisdom, suggesting it is the most valuable thing to pursue. A potential contradiction could arise if someone believes that love, compassion, or kindness should be prioritized over wisdom. If wisdom is interpreted as intellectual knowledge, it may conflict with values that emphasize emotional intelligence or moral virtues as more important.