Contradictions and Paradoxes in 2 Samuel 18:12

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 2 Samuel 18:12 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 2 Samuel 18:12. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of 2 Samuel, the man is saying he would not hurt the king's son, even if he got a lot of money, because the king told them to be careful and not harm him. He wants to follow the king's orders and keep the king's son safe.

2 Samuel 18:12: And the man said unto Joab, Though I should receive a thousand [shekels] of silver in mine hand, [yet] would I not put forth mine hand against the king's son: for in our hearing the king charged thee and Abishai and Ittai, saying, Beware that none [touch] the young man Absalom. [receive: Heb. weigh upon mine hand] [Beware...: Heb. Beware whosoever ye be of, etc]

Contradiction with Exodus 20:13

This verse, "Thou shalt not kill," contradicts the willingness to protect King David's son, even against David's order.

Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:39

This verse encourages not resisting evil and turning the other cheek, contrasting Joab’s men not taking action against Absalom for the sake of obeying a previous order.

Matthew 5:39: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

Paradox #1

The contradiction in 2 Samuel 18:12 could be seen in the tension between loyalty to a leader and following ethical commands. In this verse, a soldier refuses to harm Absalom because of King David's specific instructions, highlighting a conflict between obeying direct orders and the potential for personal or situational ethical judgment. The verse raises questions about duty versus moral choice.

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