Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Samuel 14:21

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 1 Samuel 14:21 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 1 Samuel 14:21. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the book, the people who were with the Philistines decided to switch sides and help Saul and Jonathan. They wanted to join the Israelites and be on the same team.

1 Samuel 14:21: Moreover the Hebrews [that] were with the Philistines before that time, which went up with them into the camp [from the country] round about, even they also [turned] to be with the Israelites that [were] with Saul and Jonathan.

Contradiction with Matthew 6:24

This verse speaks against serving two masters, contradicting the idea of Israelites switching allegiance back to Saul and Jonathan from the Philistines.

Matthew 6:24: No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.

Contradiction with Philippians 3:20

Emphasizes citizenship in heaven, suggesting permanence in allegiance that contrasts with the Israelites' change of allegiance.

Philippians 3:20: For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: [conversation...: or, we live or conduct ourselves as citizens of heaven, or, for obtaining heaven]

Contradiction with James 1:8

Describes a double-minded person as unstable, contradicting the notion of easily changing sides as seen in 1 Samuel 14:21.

James 1:8: A double minded man [is] unstable in all his ways.

Contradiction with Exodus 20:3

Commands having no other gods before God, reflecting the importance of unwavering faithfulness contrary to the Israelites' shifting loyalty.

Exodus 20:3: Thou shalt have no other gods before me.

Contradiction with 1 Kings 18:21

Elijah challenges the Israelites to choose one side, demonstrating the need for consistent allegiance, unlike in 1 Samuel 14:21.

1 Kings 18:21: And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the LORD [be] God, follow him: but if Baal, [then] follow him. And the people answered him not a word. [opinions: or, thoughts]

Paradox #1

One potential contradiction or conflict could be with earlier biblical laws regarding allegiance and loyalty. In the laws given to the Israelites, there is a strong emphasis on not mixing with enemy nations or adopting their ways. A situation where Israelites join with their enemy could seem inconsistent with these laws about loyalty and separation from adversaries.

Paradox #2

1 Samuel 14:21 could raise questions about conflicting loyalties and allegiances. The verse suggests that Hebrews who were previously with the Philistines switched sides to support the Israelites. This situation might seem inconsistent with the usual depiction of the Philistines as enemies of Israel, leading to questions about how such a change could occur easily and what it implies about the historical relationships between these groups.

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