Troublesome Topic: Proverbs that Seem to Contradict Each Other
Lesson 4 of 8Here are some examples of proverbs that seem to contradict each other or contradict other teachings of Scripture. However, in each case, I believe there is a logical explanation that shows that, contrary to first impressions, they are not contradictory.
These proverbs are presented in the English Standard Version (ESV) unless otherwise indicated. I have not translated them myself because, frankly, they have not yet risen to the top of my priority list.
There are probably other proverbs that could also be given as examples of this principle.
11:16 A gracious woman gets honor, and violent men get riches.
Go to footnote number11:17 A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself.
Go to footnote number15:7 The lips of the wise spread knowledge; not so the hearts of fools.
12:23 A prudent man conceals knowledge, but the heart of fools proclaims folly.
Go to footnote number26:4 Don’t answer a fool according to his foolishness, or you will be just like him (ISV).
26:5 Answer a fool according to his foolishness, or he will think himself to be wise (ISV).
Go to footnote numberThe next lesson is: Proverbs that Had a Unique Context
Footnotes
1
The statement, “violent men get riches” is probably one of those proverbs that says, “that’s just the way it is sometimes, - don’t let it ruin your life; deal with it.”
2
The statement, “a cruel man hurts himself,” tells us that sometimes it will come back to bite him. But don’t lose sleep over what does or doesn’t happen to him.
3
This quite obviously shows that different contexts require different responses, and a wise person knows the difference.
4
Each of these statements sounds like an absolute statement which should apply to all people, all the time. But that cannot be the intent. Instead, different situations call for different responses, as we see elsewhere in Proverbs. Sometimes it is best to leave a fool alone rather than to argue with him. Usually arguing does not convince anyone to change their position or perspective. The more we argue with a fool, the more foolish we look. But sometimes it is best for us to call out a fool so that he recognizes that he is not as wise as he thinks he is. I think these times usually come when some of the consequences of his foolishness have become reality for him. It takes considerable wisdom and discernment to know when to speak up and when to remain silent in the presence of someone who lacks spiritual wisdom. Therefore, seek the wisdom that will help you discern when it is best to speak or when it is best to keep silent.