Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Samuel 11:13

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 1 Samuel 11:13 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 1 Samuel 11:13. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the book 1 Samuel, Saul said no one would be punished that day because God had saved the people of Israel. It was a happy day, and they wanted to celebrate.

1 Samuel 11:13: And Saul said, There shall not a man be put to death this day: for to day the LORD hath wrought salvation in Israel.

Contradiction with Exodus 21:12

While 1 Samuel 11:13 shows Saul sparing lives after a victory, Exodus 21:12 states whoever strikes a man so that he dies shall be put to death, implying justice through capital punishment.

Exodus 21:12: He that smiteth a man, so that he die, shall be surely put to death.

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 19:21

1 Samuel 11:13 shows mercy and no retribution, while Deuteronomy 19:21 emphasizes an eye for an eye, requiring retributive justice.

Deuteronomy 19:21: And thine eye shall not pity; [but] life [shall go] for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

In 1 Samuel 11:13, Saul is seen as merciful, not taking vengeance, which aligns with Matthew 5:44's call to love enemies, but this contradicts other Old Testament calls for retribution.

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 Proverbs 24:17

Although not directly in opposition, Proverbs 24:17 warns against gloating over enemy downfall, whereas 1 Samuel 11:13 reflects mercy after a victory.

Proverbs 24:17: Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:

Contradiction with Leviticus 24:17

Leviticus 24:17 cites death as the punishment for killing a human, contrasting with Saul’s reaction in 1 Samuel 11:13, where he chooses not to execute those who opposed him.

Leviticus 24:17: And he that killeth any man shall surely be put to death. [killeth...: Heb. smiteth the life of a man]
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