Contradiction with Jeremiah 7:31
This verse indicates that the practice of sacrificing children was being done, which contradicts the eradication effort mentioned in 2 Kings 23:10.
Jeremiah 7:31: And they have built the high places of Tophet, which [is] in the valley of the son of Hinnom, to burn their sons and their daughters in the fire; which I commanded [them] not, neither came it into my heart. [came...: Heb. came it upon my heart]
Contradiction with Leviticus 18:21
This verse explicitly forbids passing children through the fire to Molech, suggesting ongoing necessity of prohibition, contrasting the reform in 2 Kings 23:10.
Leviticus 18:21: And thou shalt not let any of thy seed pass through [the fire] to Molech, neither shalt thou profane the name of thy God: I [am] the LORD. [Molech: Gr. Moloch]
Contradiction with Ezekiel 16:20-21
These verses imply continuation of child sacrifice practices, conflicting with the actions described in 2 Kings 23:10, where the place was defiled to prevent such acts.
Ezekiel 16:20-21: Moreover thou hast taken thy sons and thy daughters, whom thou hast borne unto me, and these hast thou sacrificed unto them to be devoured. [Is this] of thy whoredoms a small matter, [to be...: Heb. to devour]
Paradox #1
The contradiction, inconsistency, or conflict in that verse might relate to differing accounts of King Josiah and the valley of Hinnom. Some sources suggest variations in how King Josiah dealt with practices associated with the valley or how the valley was used historically, but specific accounts might differ. Such inconsistencies often arise from different historical or theological interpretations in ancient texts.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction in 2 Kings 23:10 could be the destruction of a place where people practiced child sacrifice. The verse depicts King Josiah destroying this place to stop the practice. The conflict arises from reconciling the need to end an immoral practice like child sacrifice with the violent and destructive methods used to do so. This can raise questions about the morality of using violence to enforce moral standards or religious reforms.