Contradiction with Exodus 20:3
2 Chronicles 33:2 describes Manasseh doing evil by following abominations, which contradicts Exodus 20:3 that commands to have no other gods, emphasizing exclusive worship.
Exodus 20:3: Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 6:14
2 Chronicles 33:2 mentions Manasseh's idolatry, while Deuteronomy 6:14 warns against following other gods, highlighting the contradiction with idolatrous practices.
Deuteronomy 6:14: Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which [are] round about you;
Contradiction with 1 Kings 18:21
In 2 Chronicles 33:2, Manasseh follows idols, contradicting Elijah's call in 1 Kings 18:21 to choose serving the Lord instead of faltering between two opinions.
1 Kings 18:21: And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the LORD [be] God, follow him: but if Baal, [then] follow him. And the people answered him not a word. [opinions: or, thoughts]
Contradiction with Isaiah 44:9
2 Chronicles 33:2’s reference to idol worship counters Isaiah 44:9’s declaration of the vanity and confusion of idol makers and worshipers.
Isaiah 44:9: They that make a graven image [are] all of them vanity; and their delectable things shall not profit; and they [are] their own witnesses; they see not, nor know; that they may be ashamed. [delectable: Heb. desirable]
Contradiction with Jeremiah 25:6
The verse describing Manasseh’s actions conflicts with Jeremiah 25:6, which warns against serving other gods, a direct challenge to Manasseh’s behavior.
Jeremiah 25:6: And go not after other gods to serve them, and to worship them, and provoke me not to anger with the works of your hands; and I will do you no hurt.
Paradox #1
The verse may seem contradictory because it depicts a king doing wrong in the eyes of God, similar to the actions forbidden in other parts of the Bible, like the Ten Commandments. This could create tension with other biblical teachings that emphasize obedience to God. However, it also highlights the recurring biblical theme of human failure and the potential for repentance and forgiveness.
Paradox #2
2 Chronicles 33:2 describes actions that are seen as evil in the narrative of the Bible. The potential contradiction or inconsistency might arise when comparing this verse to earlier parts of Chronicles or Kings, where rulers are sometimes portrayed differently in terms of their faithfulness. Such inconsistencies can occur because different authors might have emphasized various aspects of a ruler's life to communicate theological themes or moral lessons. Additionally, differences in historical accounts between Chronicles and Kings can lead to varied portrayals of the same events or individuals.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in this verse could be seen as the conflict between the actions of a leader and the expectations of following a moral, righteous path. If someone in a position of power does wrong, it sets a bad example and contradicts the teachings expected from spiritual or moral leaders. This creates tension between expected moral behavior and actual behavior.