Contradiction with Leviticus 19:31
This verse forbids seeking out those with familiar spirits, which contradicts Saul's consultation with the woman possessing a familiar spirit.
Leviticus 19:31: Regard not them that have familiar spirits, neither seek after wizards, to be defiled by them: I [am] the LORD your God.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 18:10-11
These verses strictly prohibit engaging with witchcraft or familiar spirits, contradicting Saul’s actions in 1 Samuel 28.
Deuteronomy 18:10-11: There shall not be found among you [any one] that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, [or] that useth divination, [or] an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch,
Contradiction with Exodus 22:18
This verse commands that witches should not live, which contradicts Saul allowing the witch at Endor to live.
Exodus 22:18: Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live.
Contradiction with Isaiah 8:19
This verse advises against seeking familiar spirits, contradicting Saul's decision to do so through the medium.
Isaiah 8:19: And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their God? for the living to the dead?
Paradox #1
1 Samuel 28:9 could present a contradiction because earlier in the Bible, it is made clear that contacting the dead or engaging in occult practices is forbidden by God. The inconsistency lies in the fact that the same set of scriptures also tells a story where a banned practice seems to occur, creating a situation that questions how strictly the prohibition is being observed or enforced, and leading to confusion about adherence to divine commandments.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction with 1 Samuel 28:9 lies in the context of King Saul seeking guidance through a medium, despite previous biblical commandments against engaging with such practices. This can be seen as conflicting with earlier scriptures that prohibit seeking communication with the dead or using mediums, as outlined in other parts of the Old Testament.
Paradox #3
1 Samuel 28:9 involves King Saul seeking a medium, despite previously banning such practices. The contradiction is that Saul is going against his own laws, showing inconsistency in his actions and beliefs.
Paradox #4
The contradiction in this verse arises from the prohibition against seeking guidance from mediums or necromancers, which is against God's law in the Bible. Despite this, Saul seeks out a medium himself, conflicting with the established religious rules he himself was supposed to uphold. This inconsistency reflects the struggle between following divine law and the desperation that can lead to breaking those laws.