Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 7:3
Suggests the frequency of conjugal relations should be determined by mutual consent, unlike 7:5's advice of abstinence for prayer.
1 Corinthians 7:3: Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:28
Emphasizes avoiding lustful thoughts whereas 7:5 focuses on physical abstinence.
Matthew 5:28: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
Contradiction with Genesis 1:28
Commands to "be fruitful and multiply," potentially in tension with suggestions of abstinence.
Genesis 1:28: And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. [moveth: Heb. creepeth]
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 4:3
Criticizes those who forbid marriage, contrasted with 7:5's recommendation for temporary abstinence.
1 Timothy 4:3: Forbidding to marry, [and commanding] to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.
Contradiction with Hebrews 13:4
States marriage is honorable and undefiled, potentially opposing 7:5's temporary abstinence for spiritual purposes.
Hebrews 13:4: Marriage [is] honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
Paradox #1
This verse might present a moral inconsistency regarding mutual consent and control in a relationship. It suggests that there should be mutual agreement in certain situations between partners, which could conflict with traditional views of authority or roles within marriages, potentially challenging ideas of autonomy or equal partnership.