Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Samuel 14:18

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 1 Samuel 14:18 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 1 Samuel 14:18. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of 1 Samuel, King Saul asked for the special box called the Ark of God to be brought to him because it was very important and was with the people of Israel. Saul believed the Ark would help him make good choices, as it was a symbol of God's presence.

1 Samuel 14:18: And Saul said unto Ahiah, Bring hither the ark of God. For the ark of God was at that time with the children of Israel.

Contradiction with 1 Chronicles 13:3

This verse refers to bringing the ark of God as an object not sought after in the days of Saul, which could contradict the implication in 1 Samuel 14:18 that the ark was actively being used.

1 Chronicles 13:3: And let us bring again the ark of our God to us: for we enquired not at it in the days of Saul. [bring...: Heb. bring about]

Contradiction with 1 Samuel 7:2

This verse indicates the ark was in Kirjathjearim for a long time, suggesting a contradiction with its availability for consultation as mentioned in 1 Samuel 14:18.

1 Samuel 7:2: And it came to pass, while the ark abode in Kirjathjearim, that the time was long; for it was twenty years: and all the house of Israel lamented after the LORD.

Paradox #1

1 Samuel 14:18 mentions Saul asking for the Ark of God to be brought to him. However, earlier verses say the Ark was at Kiriath-jearim and wasn't involved in Saul's battles. This creates confusion about whether it was really with Saul during this time.

Paradox #2

The contradiction or inconsistency in 1 Samuel 14:18 comes from a variation in ancient manuscripts. Some manuscripts mention "ephod", while others mention "ark." This inconsistency leads to different interpretations regarding what Saul asked to be brought to him during a battle. "Ephod" was often used by priests, whereas the "ark" refers to the Ark of the Covenant. The difference might cause confusion about the historical events described.

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