Contradictions and Paradoxes in 2 Samuel 18:15

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 2 Samuel 18:15 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 2 Samuel 18:15. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the Christian understanding, the people who worked with Joab surrounded Absalom and hurt him until he died. This shows that Joab and his men were following their leader's orders in a battle.

2 Samuel 18:15: And ten young men that bare Joab's armour compassed about and smote Absalom, and slew him.

Contradiction with Exodus 20:13

This verse states, "Thou shalt not kill," contradicting the act of killing in 2 Samuel 18:15.

Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

Here, Jesus instructs to "love your enemies," which is inconsistent with the act against Absalom in 2 Samuel 18:15.

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 teaches, "avenge not yourselves...for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord," contradicting taking justice into human hands in 2 Samuel 18:15.

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

The verse advises, "Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth," contrasting the potentially vengeful actions in 2 Samuel 18:15.

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

Contradiction with Luke 6:36

Instructs to "be ye therefore merciful," contrasting with the severity of actions in 2 Samuel 18:15.

Luke 6:36: Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.

Paradox #1

The potential contradiction in 2 Samuel 18:15 could arise from the different portrayals of justice and mercy in the Bible. This verse describes a violent act against Absalom, King David's son. Some may see a contradiction between the harsh execution of Absalom and the broader Biblical themes of forgiveness and mercy found elsewhere, like in the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament. Understanding this requires looking at the transition from Old Testament justice to New Testament grace.

Paradox #2

The contradiction in this verse could be the acceptance of using violence to resolve conflicts, which might seem inconsistent with teachings about mercy and forgiveness in other parts of the Bible. This raises questions about the use of force and justice.

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