Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Samuel 24:19

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 1 Samuel 24:19 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 1 Samuel 24:19. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of 1 Samuel, if someone finds their enemy, they usually wouldn't let them go unharmed. But because David showed kindness and let Saul go, it is hoped that God will reward David for his good actions.

1 Samuel 24:19: For if a man find his enemy, will he let him go well away? wherefore the LORD reward thee good for that thou hast done unto me this day.

Contradiction with Proverbs 25:21

This verse advises to feed and give drink to your enemy, whereas 1 Samuel 24:19 acknowledges an uncommon act of sparing one's enemy.

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 5:44

Jesus instructs to love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, which contrasts with the rarity of not harming an enemy in 1 Samuel 24:19.

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 Romans 12:20

This verse encourages doing good to your enemy to heap coals of fire on their head, contrasting with the simple act of mercy shown in 1 Samuel 24:19.

Romans 12:20: Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.

Contradiction with Proverbs 24:17

Advises not to rejoice when your enemy falls, differing from 1 Samuel 24:19 which highlights the rarity of benevolence towards an enemy.

Proverbs 24:17: Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:

Contradiction with Exodus 23:4-5

These verses instruct returning lost livestock to an enemy, contrasting with the context of 1 Samuel 24:19 which highlights an act perceived as extraordinary.

Exodus 23:4-5: If thou meet thine enemy's ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again.

Paradox #1

This verse highlights an act of mercy and forgiveness towards one's enemy. However, the contradiction or conflict might arise when this principle is compared with other biblical instances that depict retribution or punishment as justified responses to wrongdoing. This creates an inconsistency in interpreting when mercy or justice should prevail.

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