Contradictions and Paradoxes in 2 Samuel 12:17

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 2 Samuel 12:17 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 2 Samuel 12:17. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the book, the story shows a time when David was very sad and didn’t want to eat or get up because something bad happened. His friends tried to help him feel better, but he was too upset to move or eat.

2 Samuel 12:17: And the elders of his house arose, [and went] to him, to raise him up from the earth: but he would not, neither did he eat bread with them.

Contradiction with Matthew 6:16

Matthew 6:16 contradicts 2 Samuel 12:17 because it advises against making a show of fasting, while 2 Samuel 12:17 describes David fasting openly to seek God's intervention.

Matthew 6:16: Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

Contradiction with Matthew 9:14-15

This verse suggests that Jesus' disciples do not fast while he is with them, contrasting with David’s fasting in 2 Samuel 12:17 despite his connection to God.

Matthew 9:14-15: Then came to him the disciples of John, saying, Why do we and the Pharisees fast oft, but thy disciples fast not?

Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 3:4

This verse implies there is a time for everything, including fasting and feasting, whereas 2 Samuel 12:17 depicts continuous fasting without joy.

Ecclesiastes 3:4: A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;

Contradiction with Isaiah 58:3

Here, the people question why they have fasted and been ignored, contrasting with David's actions in 2 Samuel 12:17 as a sincere plea for divine attention.

Isaiah 58:3: Wherefore have we fasted, [say they], and thou seest not? [wherefore] have we afflicted our soul, and thou takest no knowledge? Behold, in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and exact all your labours. [labours: or, things wherewith ye grieve others: Heb. griefs]

Contradiction with Isaiah 58:6-7

This verse suggests true fasting involves justice and generosity, contrasting with David's focus on mourning and personal supplication in 2 Samuel 12:17.

Isaiah 58:6-7: [Is] not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? [the heavy...: Heb. the bundles of the yoke] [oppressed: Heb. broken]
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