Contradiction with 2 Samuel 6:2
This verse mentions the Ark of God being brought out of the house of Abinadab, indicating its presence in Israel rather than with the Philistines, which might be seen as contradictory without the context of how the Ark was returned.
2 Samuel 6:2: And David arose, and went with all the people that [were] with him from Baale of Judah, to bring up from thence the ark of God, whose name is called by the name of the LORD of hosts that dwelleth [between] the cherubims. [Baale: or, Baalah, that is, Kirjathjearim] [whose name...: or, at which the name, even the name of the LORD of hosts, was called upon]
Contradiction with Psalm 78:61
This verse states that God delivered His strength (the Ark) into captivity, which aligns with 1 Samuel 4:11.
Psalm 78:61: And delivered his strength into captivity, and his glory into the enemy's hand.
Paradox #1
The contradiction or conflict might arise because the loss of the Ark of the Covenant to the Philistines, as mentioned in this verse, seems inconsistent with the belief that God would always protect His sacred artifacts. Some might wonder why God allowed this loss to happen, which could be seen as a challenge to the idea of divine protection and favor towards the Israelites.
Paradox #2
The moral conflict in this passage could be the idea of God allowing a sacred object and the sons of Eli, who were priests, to be captured and killed in battle. This might seem inconsistent with the belief that God protects the faithful and sacred things. Additionally, it raises questions about divine justice and why such a tragic event would occur to those serving in religious roles.