1 Samuel 20:22 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to the author of the book 1 Samuel, this verse is a secret message between David and Jonathan. It means that if the arrows go far, David must run away because God wants him to leave to stay safe.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

1 Samuel 20:22 involves a covert warning to evade danger, while Matthew 5:44 encourages loving your enemies and praying for those who persecute you, emphasizing open forgiveness over secretive avoidance.

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 Exodus 14:14

1 Samuel 20:22 suggests proactive self-preservation, while Exodus 14:14 advises standing still and letting the Lord fight for you, advocating reliance on divine intervention rather than personal action.

Exodus 14:14: The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.

Contradiction with Proverbs 25:21-22

In contrast to the evasive measures suggested in 1 Samuel 20:22, Proverbs 25:21-22 instructs to feed the enemy when hungry, promoting benevolence instead of secret evasion.

Proverbs 25:21-22: If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:

Contradiction with Romans 12:17-18

While 1 Samuel 20:22 involves a strategy to avoid conflict, Romans 12:17-18 advises living peaceably with all if possible, suggesting an approach of reconciliation rather than avoidance.

Romans 12:17-18: Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

Contradiction with Luke 6:35

This verse advocates for loving your enemies and doing good, contrasting with the secretive escape plan in 1 Samuel 20:22, which centers around avoidance rather than engagement with kindness.

Luke 6:35: But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and [to] the evil.

Contradiction with Proverbs 29:25

1 Samuel 20:22 encourages caution and fear of impending danger, while Proverbs 29:25 states that fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe, proposing trust over fear-based actions.