Contradiction with Exodus 20:13
1 Samuel 15:7 involves the destruction of the Amalekites, while Exodus 20:13 states "Thou shalt not kill," contradicting the commandment against killing.
Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
1 Samuel 15:7 describes an act of war, whereas Matthew 5:44 instructs to "love your enemies," which contradicts the directive to destroy them.
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 Romans 12:19
1 Samuel 15:7 involves seeking vengeance on the Amalekites, yet Romans 12:19 advises against taking vengeance, stating that "Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord."
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.
Contradiction with Proverbs 24:17
1 Samuel 15:7 depicts the defeat of an enemy, but Proverbs 24:17 advises not to rejoice when your enemy falls, contradicting the apparent triumph over the Amalekites.
Proverbs 24:17: Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:
Contradiction with Matthew 26:52
1 Samuel 15:7 involves warfare, while Matthew 26:52 teaches that "all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword," suggesting non-violence and contradicting the warring action.
Matthew 26:52: Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?
Contradiction with James 1:20
In 1 Samuel 15:7, Saul carries out God's wrath upon the Amalekites, whereas James 1:20 claims that "the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God," suggesting a contradiction in pursuing wrathful actions.
James 1:20: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
Paradox #1
This verse is part of a larger story where God commands Saul to destroy the Amalekites, including men, women, children, and animals. The moral conflict arises because this command contradicts general moral principles about respecting life and not harming innocent people, like children or non-combatants. It challenges ideas about justice and mercy.