Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Samuel 4:9

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 1 Samuel 4:9 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 1 Samuel 4:9. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the book, Samuel, God is telling the Philistines to be brave and act like strong soldiers so they do not become servants to the Hebrews. It's like a pep talk to encourage them to fight hard and be courageous.

1 Samuel 4:9: Be strong, and quit yourselves like men, O ye Philistines, that ye be not servants unto the Hebrews, as they have been to you: quit yourselves like men, and fight. [quit...: Heb. be men]

Contradiction with Matthew 5:39

This verse advises against resistance to evil and promotes turning the other cheek, contrasting the encouragement to be strong in battle in 1 Samuel 4:9.

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 Romans 12:19

This verse counsels against taking vengeance, in contrast to the call for bravery and action in conflict in 1 Samuel 4:9.

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 Exodus 14:14

This verse emphasizes that the Lord will fight for you, suggesting reliance on divine intervention rather than personal strength.

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

Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 12:9

Here, strength is placed in weakness, highlighting grace rather than the self-reliant courage promoted in 1 Samuel 4:9.

2 Corinthians 12:9: And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Contradiction with Proverbs 20:22

Encourages waiting on the Lord for deliverance instead of asserting personal strength.

Proverbs 20:22: Say not thou, I will recompense evil; [but] wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.

Paradox #1

The contradiction in 1 Samuel 4:9 could be seen as encouraging violence and aggression, which may conflict with other Biblical teachings that promote peace and love for others. This inconsistency arises when the directive to fight fiercely contrasts with messages of compassion and turning away from violence found in other parts of the Bible.

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