Contradiction with Proverbs 3:35
While Psalms 107:40 mentions casting contempt upon princes, Proverbs 3:35 states that the wise shall inherit glory, suggesting respect and honor for the wise and noble rather than contempt.
Proverbs 3:35: The wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of fools. [shall be...: Heb. exalteth the fools]
Contradiction with Romans 13:1
Psalms 107:40 implies God brings down those in power, whereas Romans 13:1 stresses that every power is ordained by God, and thus should be respected and obeyed.
Romans 13:1: Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. [ordained: or, ordered]
Contradiction with 1 Samuel 2:8
Psalms 107:40 suggests God brings down princes, while 1 Samuel 2:8 highlights how God raises the poor to sit with princes, indicating an uplifting rather than a casting down.
1 Samuel 2:8: He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, [and] lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set [them] among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth [are] the LORD'S, and he hath set the world upon them.
Contradiction with Proverbs 17:5
This verse warns against mocking the poor, aligning with the idea of respecting all individuals, in contrast with Psalms 107:40 where contempt is cast upon the proud.
Proverbs 17:5: Whoso mocketh the poor reproacheth his Maker: [and] he that is glad at calamities shall not be unpunished. [unpunished: Heb. held innocent]
Contradiction with Matthew 23:12
This verse states that those who exalt themselves will be humbled, aligning with the humbling aspect in Psalms 107:40, but differing in its emphasis on self-exaltation rather than divine action.
Matthew 23:12: And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.
Paradox #1
Psalms 107:40 might be seen as contradictory if compared to other biblical passages that emphasize God's timeless wisdom and fairness. This verse suggests that God can actively bring hardship upon certain people. This idea can seem inconsistent with the concept of a loving and just God who cares for all equally, which is highlighted elsewhere in the Bible. Such differences can lead to varying interpretations of God's nature and actions.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or conflict in this verse might be seen in how divine actions are portrayed. On one hand, it suggests that God can humble or bring down powerful leaders, but this could be viewed as conflicting with the idea of a loving and merciful God. Some might question how these actions align with the concept of justice or fairness.