Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Samuel 24:10

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 1 Samuel 24:10 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 1 Samuel 24:10. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of 1 Samuel, David had a chance to hurt King Saul in a cave, but he chose not to because Saul was chosen by God as king. David wanted to do what was right and not harm someone God had chosen.

1 Samuel 24:10: Behold, this day thine eyes have seen how that the LORD had delivered thee to day into mine hand in the cave: and [some] bade [me] kill thee: but [mine eye] spared thee; and I said, I will not put forth mine hand against my lord; for he [is] the LORD'S anointed.

Contradiction with Romans 12:19

This verse advises against taking revenge, emphasizing that vengeance belongs to God, which contrasts with David's opportunity to harm Saul but choosing not to do so for a different reason—respecting God's anointed.

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

This verse suggests showing kindness to enemies, which contradicts David's specific reasoning for sparing Saul because Saul is the Lord's anointed, not just out of general kindness.

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 Matthew 5:39

This verse encourages turning the other cheek, contrasting David's action in not killing Saul, which was based on Saul's anointment, not solely on the principle of non-retaliation.

Matthew 5:39: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

Contradiction with Exodus 21:24

This "eye for an eye" law suggests retaliation, opposing David's act of mercy despite having been wronged by Saul.

Exodus 21:24: Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,

Contradiction with Leviticus 19:18

This verse advises against seeking revenge, similar to David's action, but David's restraint was due to Saul's divine appointment rather than the broader principle expressed here.

Leviticus 19:18: Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.

Paradox #1

1 Samuel 24:10 could be seen as contradicting the general idea of justice or retribution in some parts of the Bible, where wrongdoing is often met with punishment. In this verse, the protagonist refrains from harming someone who has caused him trouble, suggesting mercy and forgiveness. This contrasts with other passages where taking action against an enemy is encouraged. So, the inconsistency lies in whether to seek revenge or to forgive and show mercy.

Paradox #2

The contradiction or conflict in the verse could arise from the tension between the idea of respecting authority or anointed leaders and the potential need to act against them if they are unjust or harmful. It presents a challenge in deciding when to show restraint and when to take action.

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