Contradictions and Paradoxes in 2 Samuel 18:11

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 2 Samuel 18:11 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 2 Samuel 18:11. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of 2 Samuel, Joab was surprised and upset that the man didn't stop or hurt someone important when he had the chance. Joab told the man that he would have given him money and a special belt as a reward if he had done it.

2 Samuel 18:11: And Joab said unto the man that told him, And, behold, thou sawest [him], and why didst thou not smite him there to the ground? and I would have given thee ten [shekels] of silver, and a girdle.

Contradiction with Exodus 20:13

This verse contradicts 2 Samuel 18:11 because it commands "Thou shalt not kill," while in 2 Samuel 18:11, Joab expresses willingness to kill Absalom.

Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.

Contradiction with 1 Chronicles 28:3

This verse contradicts 2 Samuel 18:11 because it states David could not build the temple for God for being a man of war, implying the undesirability of killing, while Joab is urged towards violence.

1 Chronicles 28:3: But God said unto me, Thou shalt not build an house for my name, because thou [hast been] a man of war, and hast shed blood. [blood: Heb. bloods]

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

This verse contradicts 2 Samuel 18:11 by instructing to love your enemies, whereas Joab shows readiness to slay Absalom, David's son.

Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

Contradiction with Romans 12:19

This verse contradicts 2 Samuel 18:11 by teaching believers to not avenge themselves, while Joab is anticipated to take violent action against Absalom.

Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

Contradiction with Proverbs 24:17

This verse contradicts 2 Samuel 18:11 by advising not to rejoice over an enemy's downfall, contrasting Joab's preparedness to harm Absalom.

Proverbs 24:17: Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:

Paradox #1

The contradiction or conflict in 2 Samuel 18:11 could be seen in the context of loyalty and obedience versus personal gain. In the verse, a soldier is criticized for not killing Absalom, as instructed, but the soldier may believe in obeying King David's overall command to deal gently with Absalom. This creates a conflict between following direct orders for potential reward and adhering to broader moral or ethical principles.

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