Contradictions, however, are natural in wisdom literature because life is complex.17 One of the clearest examples of contradictory advice is found in Proverbs 26:4–5, Do not answer fools according to their folly, or you will be a fool yourself. Answer fools according to their folly, or they will be wise in their own eyes. Sometimes it is wise not to answer fools; at other times it is wise to answer them.18 Instead of faulting Ecclesiastes for its contradictions, one ought to utilize them in seeking
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