Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Samuel 16:7

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 1 Samuel 16:7 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 1 Samuel 16:7. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the book, God told Samuel not to worry about how someone looks or how tall they are. God cares more about what is in a person's heart than what they look like on the outside.

1 Samuel 16:7: But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for [the LORD seeth] not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. [outward...: Heb. eyes]

Contradiction with 1 Samuel 10:24

This verse emphasizes the physical stature of Saul, which seems to contradict God's preference for inward qualities mentioned in 1 Samuel 16:7.

1 Samuel 10:24: And Samuel said to all the people, See ye him whom the LORD hath chosen, that [there is] none like him among all the people? And all the people shouted, and said, God save the king. [God...: Heb. Let the king live]

Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 5:12

Talks about outward appearance instead of the heart, suggesting the possibility of glorying in appearances.

2 Corinthians 5:12: For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to [answer] them which glory in appearance, and not in heart. [in appearance: Gr. in the face]

Contradiction with 1 Samuel 9:2

Emphasizes Saul's physical appearance as a factor for kingship, contrasting with God's view on inner qualities in 1 Samuel 16:7.

1 Samuel 9:2: And he had a son, whose name [was] Saul, a choice young man, and a goodly: and [there was] not among the children of Israel a goodlier person than he: from his shoulders and upward [he was] higher than any of the people.

Contradiction with Proverbs 31:30

Warns against valuing charm and beauty, aligning with 1 Samuel 16:7's message that God values inner qualities.

Proverbs 31:30: Favour [is] deceitful, and beauty [is] vain: [but] a woman [that] feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.

Paradox #1

The potential contradiction is that this verse suggests God values inner qualities over outward appearances, yet other parts of the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament, describe elaborate rituals and appearances as important for worship and favor with God. This could be seen as inconsistent with the message that inner character is what truly matters to God.

Paradox #2

1 Samuel 16:7 highlights that God looks at the heart rather than outward appearances. A contradiction may arise when this principle is juxtaposed with other biblical passages that emphasize following strict external rituals or appearances. This can create tension between valuing inward character and following outward religious practices.

← 1 Samuel 16:6
Share
1 Samuel 16:8 →
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.