Contradiction with Deuteronomy 17:17
This verse contradicts 1 Kings 11:1 as it advises that a king should not multiply wives, whereas Solomon had many wives.
Deuteronomy 17:17: Neither shall he multiply wives to himself, that his heart turn not away: neither shall he greatly multiply to himself silver and gold.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 7:2
This verse suggests each man should have his own wife to avoid immorality, contrasting Solomon having multiple wives in 1 Kings 11:1.
1 Corinthians 7:2: Nevertheless, [to avoid] fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.
Contradiction with Genesis 2:24
This verse highlights the intent for a man to be united with one wife, conflicting with Solomon having many wives in 1 Kings 11:1.
Genesis 2:24: Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
Contradiction with Matthew 19:4-6
This teaching emphasizes the unity of one man and one woman in marriage, opposing Solomon's practice of having many wives in 1 Kings 11:1.
Matthew 19:4-6: And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made [them] at the beginning made them male and female,
Paradox #1
1 Kings 11:1 mentions Solomon having many foreign wives. This is seen as a contradiction because earlier in the Bible, specifically in Deuteronomy 17:17, there is a command that kings should not take many wives, as this could lead their hearts away from God. This inconsistency is highlighted by Solomon's eventual turning away from God due to the influence of his foreign wives.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or inconsistency might lie in the fact that earlier parts of the Bible emphasize the importance of Israelites not marrying foreign women to avoid being led astray by other religions. However, the verse acknowledges King Solomon's marriages to many foreign women, which seems to conflict with this earlier warning. This could indicate a tension between Solomon's actions and traditional religious teachings.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in 1 Kings 11:1 could arise from the actions of King Solomon, who is depicted as wise yet makes unwise choices by marrying many foreign women. This conflicts with earlier teachings about remaining faithful to one's own traditions and the potential negative influence of outsiders who worship other gods. Solomon's actions demonstrate a contrast between wisdom and personal behavior.