Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
1 Kings 2:9 suggests dealing harshly with enemies, but Matthew 5:44 teaches to love and pray for them.
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
1 Kings 2:9 advises personal retribution, whereas Romans 12:19 states that vengeance belongs to the Lord.
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
Proverbs 20:22 advises against seeking revenge, contradicting the directive in 1 Kings 2:9.
Proverbs 20:22: Say not thou, I will recompense evil; [but] wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.
Contradiction with Leviticus 19:18
Contradicts 1 Kings 2:9 by commanding not to bear a grudge or seek revenge.
Leviticus 19:18: Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.
Paradox #1
1 Kings 2:9 can be seen as inconsistent with themes of forgiveness and mercy found elsewhere in the Bible. This verse involves King David advising Solomon to deal harshly with his enemies, which can be in conflict with teachings that emphasize forgiving others.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in 1 Kings 2:9 could be seen in relation to earlier promises or commands. Earlier, David seems to promise safety, yet later advises Solomon to deal with his enemies. This presents a conflict between showing mercy and exacting justice.
Paradox #3
The moral conflict in this verse revolves around the idea of seeking revenge instead of forgiveness. In some parts of the Bible, there is a strong emphasis on forgiveness and peace. However, this verse suggests dealing with someone harshly, which might contradict the broader biblical teachings on mercy and forgiveness.