Contradiction with Exodus 25:14-15
Describes how the staves were meant to remain in the rings of the Ark and not be taken from it.
Exodus 25:14-15: And thou shalt put the staves into the rings by the sides of the ark, that the ark may be borne with them.
Contradiction with Numbers 4:5-6
Unlike the description in 1 Kings, these verses describe the covering of the Ark with a veil, potentially contradicting the idea of visibility.
Numbers 4:5-6: And when the camp setteth forward, Aaron shall come, and his sons, and they shall take down the covering vail, and cover the ark of testimony with it:
Contradiction with Hebrews 9:4
Details the contents of the Ark, differing from the focus in 1 Kings 8:8 on the visibility and position of the staves rather than contents.
Hebrews 9:4: Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein [was] the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant;
Contradiction with 2 Chronicles 5:9
States that the staves were visible, but this verse notes a similar situation to 1 Kings; the contradiction here might arise in narration or retelling context.
2 Chronicles 5:9: And they drew out the staves [of the ark], that the ends of the staves were seen from the ark before the oracle; but they were not seen without. And there it is unto this day. [there...: or, they are there]
Paradox #1
The contradiction or inconsistency might involve the description of the Ark's poles being visible in the temple. Some scholars argue that this detail could conflict with other biblical accounts or historical knowledge about the temple's construction and design. It raises questions about how the poles could be both permanently attached as mentioned here, yet moved in other contexts.