Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Samuel 12:12

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 1 Samuel 12:12 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 1 Samuel 12:12. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of 1 Samuel, when the people saw a scary king coming to fight them, they asked for a human king to protect them instead of trusting God, who was already their king. They wanted someone they could see and touch, even though God was supposed to be their leader and protector.

1 Samuel 12:12: And when ye saw that Nahash the king of the children of Ammon came against you, ye said unto me, Nay; but a king shall reign over us: when the LORD your God [was] your king.

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 17:14

This verse supports the idea of appointing a king, which contrasts with 1 Samuel 12:12 where the desire for a king is portrayed negatively.

Deuteronomy 17:14: When thou art come unto the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, and shalt possess it, and shalt dwell therein, and shalt say, I will set a king over me, like as all the nations that [are] about me;

Contradiction with Hosea 13:10-11

These verses indicate God's disapproval and anger over Israel asking for a king, aligning with the displeasure shown in 1 Samuel 12:12, but reflecting a stronger condemnation.

Hosea 13:10-11: I will be thy king: where [is any other] that may save thee in all thy cities? and thy judges of whom thou saidst, Give me a king and princes? [I will...: rather, Where is thy king?]

Contradiction with Judges 8:23

Gideon's refusal to rule over Israel contradicts the people's request for a king in 1 Samuel 12:12, showing that leadership through divine rule was possible without a monarch.

Judges 8:23: And Gideon said unto them, I will not rule over you, neither shall my son rule over you: the LORD shall rule over you.

Contradiction with 1 Samuel 8:7

This verse directly echoes the rejection of God's leadership in favor of a human king, showing a similar sentiment of contradiction to God's rule as expressed in 1 Samuel 12:12.

1 Samuel 8:7: And the LORD said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they say unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them.

Contradiction with 1 Samuel 10:19

The contradiction lies in the people's rejection of God as their king, which aligns with the reasoning behind the request for a human king in 1 Samuel 12:12 but highlights their disobedience.

1 Samuel 10:19: And ye have this day rejected your God, who himself saved you out of all your adversities and your tribulations; and ye have said unto him, [Nay], but set a king over us. Now therefore present yourselves before the LORD by your tribes, and by your thousands.

Contradiction with Psalm 118:8-9

These verses emphasize trust in the Lord rather than in human leaders, contradicting the people's desire for a king in 1 Samuel 12:12.

Psalm 118:8-9: [It is] better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.

Contradiction with Proverbs 28:2

Implying issues with multiple rulers, this verse contradicts the idea that having a king would solve Israel’s problems, as implied in their request in 1 Samuel 12:12.

Proverbs 28:2: For the transgression of a land many [are] the princes thereof: but by a man of understanding [and] knowledge the state [thereof] shall be prolonged. [by...: or, by men of understanding and wisdom shall they likewise be prolonged]

Contradiction with Isaiah 33:22

Declares the Lord as the ultimate judge, lawgiver, and king, contradicting Israel's request for an earthly king in 1 Samuel 12:12 as unnecessary.

Isaiah 33:22: For the LORD [is] our judge, the LORD [is] our lawgiver, the LORD [is] our king; he will save us. [lawgiver: Heb. statutemaker]
Disclaimer: The content provided at PolarBible.com is for educational purposes only. Readers have the full right to agree or disagree with the interpretations and conclusions presented. We take no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken based on the information shared as Polar Verses.