Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Samuel 18:11

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 1 Samuel 18:11 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 1 Samuel 18:11. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the book of 1 Samuel, Saul was jealous and angry at David, so he threw a spear at him to try to hurt him. But David was quick and moved out of the way, so the spear did not hit him.

1 Samuel 18:11: And Saul cast the javelin; for he said, I will smite David even to the wall [with it]. And David avoided out of his presence twice.

Contradiction with Exodus 20:13

"Thou shalt not kill" contradicts Saul's intent to harm David with a javelin.

Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

Commands to love your enemies contradict Saul's act of trying to smite David.

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 1 John 4:20

If a man loves not his brother whom he has seen, this contradicts Saul's hatred and attempt to harm David.

1 John 4:20: If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?

Contradiction with Romans 12:19

It advises against taking vengeance, contradicting Saul's attempt to harm David.

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 25:21

Advises providing for an enemy if in need, contradicting Saul's attempt to kill David.

Proverbs 25:21: If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:

Contradiction with 1 Peter 3:9

Instructs not to repay evil for evil, contradicting Saul's harmful intent towards David.

1 Peter 3:9: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.

Contradiction with Ephesians 4:31

Advises to put away anger and malice, contradicting Saul's actions driven by jealousy and anger.

Ephesians 4:31: Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:

Contradiction with Matthew 18:21-22

Encourages forgiveness, contradicting Saul’s act of aggression against David.

Matthew 18:21-22: Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?

Paradox #1

The potential conflict in 1 Samuel 18:11 could relate to the contradiction of a leader, chosen by God, showing jealousy and attempting harm. This goes against the expectation that a divinely chosen king would behave righteously and justly.

Paradox #2

The possible doctrinal conflict in 1 Samuel 18:11 could arise from the tension between the narrative of a faithful person being under threat and the belief in divine protection for the righteous. This might seem inconsistent because the verse depicts a dangerous situation for someone who had been loyal, which might raise questions about why God allows such threats to happen to His faithful ones.

Paradox #3

The moral conflict in this situation could be seen in the actions of Saul. Saul attempts harm, despite his role as king and leader, which contrasts with the expectation for a leader to act with tolerance and moral integrity. This displays inconsistency between Saul's role and his actions.

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.