Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Samuel 15:4

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 1 Samuel 15:4 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 1 Samuel 15:4. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of 1 Samuel, this verse shows that King Saul gathered a big army of people to get ready for battle. He counted 200,000 fighters who were on foot and 10,000 special fighters from Judah.

1 Samuel 15:4: And Saul gathered the people together, and numbered them in Telaim, two hundred thousand footmen, and ten thousand men of Judah.

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 20:16-17

While 1 Samuel 15:4 involves Saul preparing to attack the Amalekites, Deuteronomy 20:16-17 commands the complete destruction of certain peoples, including Amalekites, showing the utter annihilation that contrasts Saul's initial assembly.

Deuteronomy 20:16-17: But of the cities of these people, which the LORD thy God doth give thee [for] an inheritance, thou shalt save alive nothing that breatheth:

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

1 Samuel 15:4 describes an impending battle with the Amalekites, whereas Matthew 5:44 teaches to love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, presenting a contradiction in approach towards enemies.

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 Exodus 20:13

This verse states "Thou shalt not kill," which contradicts the impending military action and killing depicted in 1 Samuel 15:4.

Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.

Contradiction with Romans 12:19

1 Samuel 15:4 describes preparation for vengeance against the Amalekites, while Romans 12:19 advises against taking vengeance, urging to leave wrath to God.

Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
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