Contradiction with Proverbs 11:14
This verse states that where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety, contradicting Absalom's secretive and unilateral bid for power.
Proverbs 11:14: Where no counsel [is], the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors [there is] safety.
Contradiction with Romans 13:1
This verse commands every soul to be subject unto the higher powers, contradicting Absalom’s rebellion against King David’s authority.
Romans 13:1: Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. [ordained: or, ordered]
Contradiction with James 3:16
This verse warns that where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work, opposing Absalom’s actions rooted in jealousy and ambition.
James 3:16: For where envying and strife [is], there [is] confusion and every evil work. [confusion: Gr. tumult, or, unquietness]
Contradiction with 1 Samuel 15:23
This verse equates rebellion with the sin of witchcraft, contradicting Absalom’s rebellious takeover as an acceptable act.
1 Samuel 15:23: For rebellion [is as] the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness [is as] iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from [being] king. [witchcraft: Heb. divination]
Contradiction with Hebrews 13:17
This verse encourages obedience to leaders who watch over souls, contradicting the disobedient and rebellious actions of Absalom against his father, King David.
Hebrews 13:17: Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that [is] unprofitable for you. [have...: or, guide]
Paradox #1
2 Samuel 15:10 talks about Absalom sending secret messages throughout Israel, declaring his kingship. A contradiction or inconsistency here could be related to the logistics and communication methods of the time. Some might argue that spreading such a message secretly across a large area would have been quite difficult given the ancient communication systems. However, this is more about practical feasibility than a direct contradiction, so there might not be a major conflict.