Contradiction with 2 Samuel 7:8
This verse refers to David as a servant taken from the sheepcote, which suggests he was only a shepherd without the warrior experiences mentioned in 1 Samuel 17:34.
2 Samuel 7:8: Now therefore so shalt thou say unto my servant David, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, I took thee from the sheepcote, from following the sheep, to be ruler over my people, over Israel: [from following: Heb. from after]
Contradiction with 1 Chronicles 17:7
Similar to 2 Samuel 7:8, this verse emphasizes David being chosen from the sheepcote without reference to any predatory confrontations, unlike his claim in 1 Samuel 17:34.
1 Chronicles 17:7: Now therefore thus shalt thou say unto my servant David, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, I took thee from the sheepcote, [even] from following the sheep, that thou shouldest be ruler over my people Israel: [from following: Heb. from after]
Contradiction with Psalm 78:70-71
These verses focus on David being chosen as a shepherd of Israel, implying his pastoral background without mentioning the feats of combat with lions and bears, which could contradict his depiction in 1 Samuel 17:34.
Psalm 78:70-71: He chose David also his servant, and took him from the sheepfolds:
Paradox #1
1 Samuel 17:34 could have a contradiction regarding David's experience as a shepherd. In some parts, David is portrayed as a young shepherd with little experience, while in later narratives, he is described as having significant skills in combat against wild animals. This discrepancy raises questions about the timeline and nature of his skills.