Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Samuel 9:1

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

According to the author of the book, this verse is introducing us to Kish, who is part of the Benjamin family and is known for being strong and important. It sets the stage for the story about his son, Saul, who plays a big role later on.

1 Samuel 9:1: Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name [was] Kish, the son of Abiel, the son of Zeror, the son of Bechorath, the son of Aphiah, a Benjamite, a mighty man of power. [a Benjamite: or, the son of a man of Jemini] [power: or, substance]

Contradiction with 1 Samuel 10:21-22

Although 1 Samuel 9:1 introduces Kish as a "mighty man of power," these verses describe Saul as hiding, suggesting a lack of confidence despite his father's status.

1 Samuel 10:21-22: When he had caused the tribe of Benjamin to come near by their families, the family of Matri was taken, and Saul the son of Kish was taken: and when they sought him, he could not be found.

Contradiction with 1 Samuel 8:5

While Kish is depicted as a powerful man, this verse shows Israel demanding a king to judge them, implying Kish's lineage was not initially seen as related to kingship.

1 Samuel 8:5: And said unto him, Behold, thou art old, and thy sons walk not in thy ways: now make us a king to judge us like all the nations.

Contradiction with 1 Samuel 15:17

Contradicts the notion of Kish as an influential man by referring to Saul as "little in his own sight," despite being from a "mighty" family.

1 Samuel 15:17: And Samuel said, When thou [wast] little in thine own sight, [wast] thou not [made] the head of the tribes of Israel, and the LORD anointed thee king over Israel?

Contradiction with Judges 6:15

Kish is noted as a man of power, yet this verse highlights Gideon's objection to his own low status, suggesting that tribal power was not uniformly influential.

Judges 6:15: And he said unto him, Oh my Lord, wherewith shall I save Israel? behold, my family [is] poor in Manasseh, and I [am] the least in my father's house. [my family...: Heb. my thousand is the meanest]

Contradiction with 1 Samuel 16:7

Kish's status as a mighty man could imply leadership potential, yet this verse emphasizes that God does not look at outward appearances or status but at the heart.

1 Samuel 16:7: But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for [the LORD seeth] not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. [outward...: Heb. eyes]
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