Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Samuel 6:18

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 1 Samuel 6:18 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 1 Samuel 6:18. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the book, the Philistines gave many golden mice to show they were sorry for taking the special box called the Ark. These mice matched the number of their cities, and they placed the Ark on a big rock in a field, which was still there when the story was written.

1 Samuel 6:18: And the golden mice, [according to] the number of all the cities of the Philistines [belonging] to the five lords, [both] of fenced cities, and of country villages, even unto the great [stone of] Abel, whereon they set down the ark of the LORD: [which stone remaineth] unto this day in the field of Joshua, the Bethshemite. [great...: or, great stone]

Contradiction with Exodus 20:4

This verse prohibits making graven images, which could be seen as a contradiction if interpreted against any objects mentioned in 1 Samuel 6:18 that might be considered idols.

Exodus 20:4: Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness [of any thing] that [is] in heaven above, or that [is] in the earth beneath, or that [is] in the water under the earth:

Contradiction with Matthew 5:39

This verse advises turning the other cheek, contrasting with any implied retribution or territorial claims found within the context of 1 Samuel 6:18.

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 Isaiah 40:18

This verse questions what likeness can be compared to God, potentially contradicting any imagery or symbolism inferred in 1 Samuel 6:18.

Isaiah 40:18: To whom then will ye liken God? or what likeness will ye compare unto him?

Contradiction with Acts 17:29

This verse warns against thinking of the Godhead in terms of gold, silver, or stone, contradicting any such interpretations of the ark or offerings in 1 Samuel 6:18.

Acts 17:29: Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device.

Paradox #1

One possible inconsistency with 1 Samuel 6:18 is that it mentions a large stone on which the Ark of the Covenant was set in the field of Joshua of Beth Shemesh, and it refers to this place as still existing "to this day." However, identifying this specific stone or exact location with certainty in historical or archaeological records is challenging. Additionally, variations in ancient manuscripts may lead to differences in textual interpretation.

Paradox #2

The contradiction in 1 Samuel 6:18 could relate to the differing accounts of the number of golden objects associated with the story. Different translations or interpretations might show inconsistencies in the counted quantities or descriptions compared to other parts of the text.

← 1 Samuel 6:17
Share
1 Samuel 6:19 →
Disclaimer: The content provided at PolarBible.com is for educational purposes only. Readers have the full right to agree or disagree with the interpretations and conclusions presented. We take no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken based on the information shared as Polar Verses.