Contradictions and Paradoxes in 1 Samuel 9:17

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 1 Samuel 9:17 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 1 Samuel 9:17. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the prophet Samuel, God showed him Saul and said that Saul was the one chosen to be the leader or king of the people. God was telling Samuel that Saul would be in charge to guide and protect everyone.

1 Samuel 9:17: And when Samuel saw Saul, the LORD said unto him, Behold the man whom I spake to thee of! this same shall reign over my people. [reign over: Heb. restrain in]

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 17:15

Contradicts by requiring the king to be chosen by the people, while 1 Samuel 9:17 depicts God choosing Saul.

Deuteronomy 17:15: Thou shalt in any wise set [him] king over thee, whom the LORD thy God shall choose: [one] from among thy brethren shalt thou set king over thee: thou mayest not set a stranger over thee, which [is] not thy brother.

Contradiction with Hosea 13:11

States that God gave Israel a king in anger, suggesting disapproval of the monarchy, which contrasts with the positive portrayal in 1 Samuel 9:17.

Hosea 13:11: I gave thee a king in mine anger, and took [him] away in my wrath.

Contradiction with 1 Samuel 8:7

Shows God's displeasure with Israel's demand for a king, contradicting His selection of Saul in 1 Samuel 9:17.

1 Samuel 8:7: And the LORD said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they say unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them.

Contradiction with 1 Samuel 10:19

Indicates rejection of God's leadership in choosing a king, opposing the divine selection shown in 1 Samuel 9:17.

1 Samuel 10:19: And ye have this day rejected your God, who himself saved you out of all your adversities and your tribulations; and ye have said unto him, [Nay], but set a king over us. Now therefore present yourselves before the LORD by your tribes, and by your thousands.

Contradiction with Judges 8:23

Demonstrates Gideon's rejection of kingship, opposing the establishment of kingship in 1 Samuel 9:17.

Judges 8:23: And Gideon said unto them, I will not rule over you, neither shall my son rule over you: the LORD shall rule over you.

Paradox #1

The verse acknowledges God's selection of Saul as king, which raises questions about the overall message of God being the true king of Israel and the reluctance shown by God and Samuel earlier regarding human kingship. It shows a tension between divine sovereignty and human authority, as portrayed in the Bible.

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