Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Kings 19:4

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 1 Kings 19:4 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 1 Kings 19:4. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of 1 Kings, Elijah was feeling very tired and sad, so he went into the desert and sat under a tree, asking God to let him die because he thought he wasn't any better than the people before him. Elijah felt alone and as if he couldn't do what he was supposed to do, so he asked God for help.

1 Kings 19:4: But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life; for I [am] not better than my fathers. [for himself: Heb. for his life]

Contradiction with Philippians 4:13

This verse expresses strength and ability to do all things, while 1 Kings 19:4 depicts Elijah feeling weak and desiring to die.

Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Contradiction with Psalm 23:4

This verse speaks of not fearing evil and God's presence in adversity, in contrast to Elijah's despair and fleeing for his life in 1 Kings 19:4.

Psalm 23:4: Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou [art] with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 12:10

This verse highlights finding strength in weakness, unlike Elijah's wish to give up in 1 Kings 19:4.

2 Corinthians 12:10: Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

Contradiction with James 1:2-3

This verse encourages joy in trials, whereas Elijah in 1 Kings 19:4 is overwhelmed by his circumstances.

James 1:2-3: My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; [temptations: or, trials]

Contradiction with Romans 8:37

This verse declares believers as more than conquerors, differing from Elijah's sense of defeat in 1 Kings 19:4.

Romans 8:37: Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

Paradox #1

The verse in question expresses a moment of despair and a desire to escape life's challenges. A perceived inconsistency could be with the general biblical theme of perseverance and hope in times of trouble. While many scriptures encourage relying on God for strength during difficult times, this verse shows a prophet feeling overwhelmed and wanting to give up. However, it's important to note that this reflects human emotion and vulnerability, which is also a recurring theme in the Bible.

Paradox #2

The moral conflict in 1 Kings 19:4 could be seen in the struggle between faith and despair. The character feels deep despair and asks for death, which contrasts with the religious belief in the value of life and trust in divine support. This highlights the tension between human emotions and spiritual faith.

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