Contradiction with Exodus 32:14
This verse speaks about God repenting from the harm He planned to do to His people. Both convey God's mercy, but the context of change shows a contradiction in His initial intentions.
Exodus 32:14: And the LORD repented of the evil which he thought to do unto his people.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 9:8-9
These verses highlight God's anger against Israel at Horeb, which contrasts with the compassion shown in 2 Kings 13:23.
Deuteronomy 9:8-9: Also in Horeb ye provoked the LORD to wrath, so that the LORD was angry with you to have destroyed you.
Contradiction with Numbers 11:1
This verse shows the Lord's anger kindled against the people, contradicting the expressed mercy in 2 Kings 13:23.
Numbers 11:1: And [when] the people complained, it displeased the LORD: and the LORD heard [it]; and his anger was kindled; and the fire of the LORD burnt among them, and consumed [them that were] in the uttermost parts of the camp. [complained: or, were as it were complainers] [it displeased: Heb. it was evil in the ears of]
Contradiction with 1 Samuel 15:29
This verse declares that God does not repent or change His mind, which can contrast with the idea of mercy and relenting seen in 2 Kings 13:23.
1 Samuel 15:29: And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he [is] not a man, that he should repent. [Strength: or, Eternity, or, Victory]
Contradiction with Ezekiel 8:18
Here God declares He will not have pity nor spare, which contrasts with the theme of compassion and mercy in 2 Kings 13:23.
Ezekiel 8:18: Therefore will I also deal in fury: mine eye shall not spare, neither will I have pity: and though they cry in mine ears with a loud voice, [yet] will I not hear them.
Contradiction with Lamentations 2:21
The verse depicts God's lack of mercy as portrayed through great destruction, contrasting the mercy shown in 2 Kings 13:23.
Lamentations 2:21: The young and the old lie on the ground in the streets: my virgins and my young men are fallen by the sword; thou hast slain [them] in the day of thine anger; thou hast killed, [and] not pitied.
Paradox #1
The contradiction in 2 Kings 13:23 might be seen in the idea that despite wrongdoing or disobedience, divine compassion and commitment remain. This could be perceived as inconsistent because it appears to contrast with moments when similar wrongdoings lead to punishment rather than compassion, raising questions about fairness and consistency in divine justice.