Contradiction with Proverbs 10:22
Psalms 49:16 suggests not to fear when someone becomes rich, whereas Proverbs 10:22 states that the blessing of the Lord brings wealth, indicating that wealth can be a positive sign of divine favor.
Proverbs 10:22: The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.
Contradiction with Matthew 19:24
Psalms 49:16 advises against fearing the riches of others, while Matthew 19:24 highlights the difficulty for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God, implying potential spiritual harm in wealth.
Matthew 19:24: And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 6:10
Psalms 49:16 implies that one should not fear the rich, whereas 1 Timothy 6:10 warns that the love of money is the root of all evil, suggesting a caution towards wealth itself.
1 Timothy 6:10: For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. [erred: or, been seduced]
Contradiction with James 5:1
Psalms 49:16 tells not to fear the wealth of others, but James 5:1 warns the rich to weep and howl for their miseries, indicating an impending judgment or harm for those with riches.
James 5:1: Go to now, [ye] rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon [you].
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 5:10
Psalms 49:16 indicates not to fear wealth, while Ecclesiastes 5:10 teaches that whoever loves wealth never has enough, highlighting the potential negative consequences of desiring riches.
Ecclesiastes 5:10: He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this [is] also vanity.
Paradox #1
The contradiction in Psalms 49:16 could be seen as it warns against being afraid or envious of those who become rich, yet elsewhere in the Bible, wealth is sometimes seen as a blessing from God. This could appear as a conflict between viewing wealth as a source of concern versus a sign of divine favor.