Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Kings 20:20

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 1 Kings 20:20 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 1 Kings 20:20. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the book, this part of the story shows how the Israelites won the battle against the Syrians because God was helping them. The king of Syria, Benhadad, ran away on a horse when he saw his soldiers losing.

1 Kings 20:20: And they slew every one his man: and the Syrians fled; and Israel pursued them: and Benhadad the king of Syria escaped on an horse with the horsemen.

Contradiction with Exodus 14:13-14

Contradicts by emphasizing that God fights for His people, whereas 1 Kings 20:20 describes the Israelites fighting their enemies.

Exodus 14:13-14: And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever. [for the...: or, for whereas ye have seen the Egyptians to day]

Contradiction with 2 Chronicles 20:17

Contradicts by instructing the Israelites not to fight but to stand still and see the salvation of the Lord, while 1 Kings 20:20 describes active fighting.

2 Chronicles 20:17: Ye shall not [need] to fight in this [battle]: set yourselves, stand ye [still], and see the salvation of the LORD with you, O Judah and Jerusalem: fear not, nor be dismayed; to morrow go out against them: for the LORD [will be] with you.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

Contradicts by teaching to love your enemies and do good to them, in contrast to the destruction of enemies in 1 Kings 20:20.

Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

Contradiction with Romans 12:19

Contradicts by urging not to seek vengeance but leave it to God, differing from the direct confrontation described in 1 Kings 20:20.

Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

Contradiction with Proverbs 20:22

Contradicts by advising not to say, "I will recompense evil," but to wait for the Lord, which contrasts with the immediate battle actions in 1 Kings 20:20.

Proverbs 20:22: Say not thou, I will recompense evil; [but] wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.
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