Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 9:11
Emphasizes that success is often due to chance and timing, whereas 1 Samuel 17:47 credits victory solely to God's intervention.
Ecclesiastes 9:11: I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race [is] not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.
Contradiction with Proverbs 21:31
Suggests that preparation, like having a horse ready for battle, is essential, contradicting 1 Samuel 17:47 where human preparation is not mentioned as necessary.
Proverbs 21:31: The horse [is] prepared against the day of battle: but safety [is] of the LORD. [safety: or, victory]
Contradiction with Psalm 33:16
States that a king is not saved by his large army, opposing 1 Samuel 17:47 which attributes victory to divine help rather than human strength.
Psalm 33:16: There is no king saved by the multitude of an host: a mighty man is not delivered by much strength.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 17:5
Warns against relying on human strength, aligning with 1 Samuel 17:47 yet implicitly contradicting those who do by acknowledging their existence.
Jeremiah 17:5: Thus saith the LORD; Cursed [be] the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD.
Contradiction with Matthew 26:52
Jesus states that those who live by the sword will die by the sword, contrasting with the message that God grants victory regardless of human weaponry mentioned in 1 Samuel 17:47.
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?
Paradox #1
The verse in question emphasizes that victory comes from God rather than human strength or weapons. Some might see a contradiction with other parts of the Bible where God instructs people to use military force or where heroes are praised for their bravery and strength in battle. This could seem inconsistent with the idea that physical might is unnecessary when God is involved. However, these interpretations usually reflect different contexts and lessons rather than direct contradictions.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in this verse may stem from the idea of attributing success in battle to divine intervention. For some, it can seem inconsistent to associate religious or moral righteousness with victory in violent conflict, as many religious teachings emphasize peace and compassion. This could create a tension between understanding divine support and advocating for non-violence.