Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Samuel 6:2

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 1 Samuel 6:2 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 1 Samuel 6:2. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of 1 Samuel, the Philistines were confused and wanted to know how to properly send back the Ark of the Lord to where it belonged. They asked their wise men for advice because the Ark was causing trouble in their land.

1 Samuel 6:2: And the Philistines called for the priests and the diviners, saying, What shall we do to the ark of the LORD? tell us wherewith we shall send it to his place.

Contradiction with Exodus 20:4

This verse prohibits creating graven images, but in 1 Samuel 6:2, the Philistines consider making golden images as a guilt offering.

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 Deuteronomy 12:30-31

God warns against adopting pagan practices, whereas the Philistines in 1 Samuel 6:2 suggest using their priests and diviners, aligning with pagan customs.

Deuteronomy 12:30-31: Take heed to thyself that thou be not snared by following them, after that they be destroyed from before thee; and that thou enquire not after their gods, saying, How did these nations serve their gods? even so will I do likewise. [by...: Heb. after them]

Contradiction with Isaiah 44:15-17

These verses deride the creation of idols for worship, contrasting with the Philistines' proposal in 1 Samuel 6:2 to create golden images to appease God.

Isaiah 44:15-17: Then shall it be for a man to burn: for he will take thereof, and warm himself; yea, he kindleth [it], and baketh bread; yea, he maketh a god, and worshippeth [it]; he maketh it a graven image, and falleth down thereto.

Contradiction with Jeremiah 10:3-5

Denounces the futility of crafting idols, conflicting with the Philistine strategy in 1 Samuel 6:2 to craft golden images as a remedy for their plight.

Jeremiah 10:3-5: For the customs of the people [are] vain: for [one] cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. [customs...: Heb. statutes, or, ordinances are vanity]

Contradiction with Leviticus 26:1

This verse instructs against idols and images, directly opposing the actions recommended by Philistine priests in 1 Samuel 6:2.

Leviticus 26:1: Ye shall make you no idols nor graven image, neither rear you up a standing image, neither shall ye set up [any] image of stone in your land, to bow down unto it: for I [am] the LORD your God. [standing...: or, pillar] [image of...: or, figured stone: Heb. a stone of picture]

Paradox #1

The contradiction in this verse might relate to differing accounts between 1 Samuel and other texts about the roles and actions of various groups like the Philistines and Israelites. There could be inconsistencies in how events are described or different perspectives on who was involved. It's also possible that historical records or archeological findings might not fully align with the biblical narrative.

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