Contradiction with Matthew 5:14
Revelation 18:18 describes a vision of destruction and lamenting over a city; Matthew 5:14 speaks of a city that is set on a hill and cannot be hidden, symbolizing something admired and enduring.
Matthew 5:14: Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
Contradiction with Isaiah 60:19
In Revelation 18:18, the city is destroyed and engulfed in smoke; Isaiah 60:19 speaks of everlasting light and glory.
Isaiah 60:19: The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the LORD shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 29:7
Revelation 18:18 speaks of the downfall of Babylon; Jeremiah 29:7 encourages seeking the peace and prosperity of the city one is in.
Jeremiah 29:7: And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the LORD for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace.
Contradiction with Zechariah 8:3
Revelation 18:18 depicts despair over a fallen city; Zechariah 8:3 proclaims that Jerusalem will become a city of truth.
Zechariah 8:3: Thus saith the LORD; I am returned unto Zion, and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and Jerusalem shall be called a city of truth; and the mountain of the LORD of hosts the holy mountain.
Contradiction with Psalm 46:4
Revelation 18:18 involves destruction and chaos; Psalm 46:4 describes a river that brings joy to the city of God, symbolizing peace and safety.
Psalm 46:4: [There is] a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy [place] of the tabernacles of the most High.
Contradiction with Proverbs 11:11
Revelation 18:18 tells of a city's ruin; Proverbs 11:11 indicates that the upright can uplift a city.
Proverbs 11:11: By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.
Contradiction with Acts 17:24
Revelation 18:18 is about the destruction of the city Babylon; Acts 17:24 states that God does not dwell in temples made by human hands, indicating God’s transcendence beyond physical cities.
Acts 17:24: God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;
Contradiction with Psalm 127:1
Revelation 18:18 describes a city's fall; Psalm 127:1 suggests that without the Lord, a city cannot stand, implying that divine support is essential for a city's endurance.
Psalm 127:1: [A Song of degrees for Solomon.] Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh [but] in vain. [for...: or, of Solomon] [that...: Heb. that are builders of it in it]
Paradox #1
The contradiction or inconsistency in this verse could be seen in the reaction of sorrow from those who benefited from the wealth and luxury of a morally corrupt system. It highlights a possible conflict between valuing material prosperity and recognizing the need for justice and righteousness.