Contradiction with Numbers 6:5
This verse describes the Nazarite vow where a person would let their hair grow long to show holiness, contradicting the idea that long hair is dishonorable for men.
Numbers 6:5: All the days of the vow of his separation there shall no razor come upon his head: until the days be fulfilled, in the which he separateth [himself] unto the LORD, he shall be holy, [and] shall let the locks of the hair of his head grow.
Contradiction with Judges 13:5
This verse speaks about Samson, a Nazarite from birth, who never cut his hair as a symbol of his dedication to God, contrasting with the notion that long hair is shameful for a man.
Judges 13:5: For, lo, thou shalt conceive, and bear a son; and no razor shall come on his head: for the child shall be a Nazarite unto God from the womb: and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines.
Contradiction with 2 Samuel 14:25-26
Absalom is described as being praised for his long hair, which contradicts the idea that long hair is dishonorable.
2 Samuel 14:25-26: But in all Israel there was none to be so much praised as Absalom for his beauty: from the sole of his foot even to the crown of his head there was no blemish in him. [But...: Heb. And as Absalom there was not a beautiful man in all Israel to praise greatly]
Contradiction with Ezekiel 44:20
This verse instructs priests not to let their hair grow long but to keep it trimmed, suggesting a specific context for hair length rather than a general rule for all men.
Ezekiel 44:20: Neither shall they shave their heads, nor suffer their locks to grow long; they shall only poll their heads.
Contradiction with Numbers 6:2-5
The concept of the Nazarite vow includes growing one's hair, showing dedication to God and contradicting the idea of shaming nature.
Numbers 6:2-5: Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When either man or woman shall separate [themselves] to vow a vow of a Nazarite, to separate [themselves] unto the LORD: [to separate...: or, to make themselves Nazarites]
Contradiction with Acts 18:18
Paul himself took a vow that involved letting his hair grow, which contradicts the assertion in 1 Corinthians that long hair is against nature for men.
Acts 18:18: And Paul [after this] tarried [there] yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila; having shorn [his] head in Cenchrea: for he had a vow.
Paradox #1
1 Corinthians 11:14 discusses the topic of hair length, which may contradict or conflict with other biblical teachings on outward appearances and spiritual matters. For instance, in Galatians 3:28, it emphasizes equality in Christ regardless of gender, suggesting that outward appearances should not matter. This could create inconsistency when one scripture appears to focus on physical attributes, while another focuses on inner spiritual equality.
Paradox #2
Some people see a contradiction between this verse and the idea that God looks at the heart rather than outward appearances. They might argue that focusing on external practices can seem inconsistent with other biblical teachings that emphasize internal qualities over external ones.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or inconsistency related to this verse might be the cultural differences over time regarding what is considered appropriate or inappropriate appearance for men. In different historical and cultural contexts, longer hair on men has been both normal and respected, contradicting the specific cultural norm suggested by the verse.
Paradox #4
The verse suggests that it is unnatural for men to have long hair. Scientifically, hair length is a biological trait and varies among individuals and cultures. There is no scientific basis for considering men's long hair as unnatural; it is simply a matter of cultural norms and personal preference.
Paradox #5
Some people see a conflict in the idea that cultural norms are used to decide what's right or wrong, while the Bible often emphasizes spiritual values over human traditions. This could seem inconsistent to those who believe moral guidance should come from deeper principles rather than cultural customs.