Contradictions and Paradoxes in 2 Samuel 18:3

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 2 Samuel 18:3 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 2 Samuel 18:3. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of 2 Samuel, the people told their leader, David, that he was very important and should stay safe in the city. They believed that if he was with them, it would help them more than him being in danger.

2 Samuel 18:3: But the people answered, Thou shalt not go forth: for if we flee away, they will not care for us; neither if half of us die, will they care for us: but now [thou art] worth ten thousand of us: therefore now [it is] better that thou succour us out of the city. [care...: Heb. set their heart on us] [worth...: Heb. as ten thousand of us] [succour: Heb. be to succour or help]

Contradiction with Matthew 26:52

While 2 Samuel 18:3 highlights the protection of leadership in battle, this verse suggests those who take up the sword will perish by it, showing a contrasting view on the use of violence and protection.

Matthew 26:52: Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?

Contradiction with Exodus 14:14

Contrasts with 2 Samuel 18:3 by emphasizing that the Lord will fight for them, indicating reliance on divine rather than human intervention.

Exodus 14:14: The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.

Contradiction with Isaiah 31:1

This verse warns against relying on human strength and war capabilities, contradicting the reliance on an army as seen in 2 Samuel 18:3.

Isaiah 31:1: Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help; and stay on horses, and trust in chariots, because [they are] many; and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the LORD!

Contradiction with Isaiah 30:15

Here, quietness and trust are highlighted over military strategy or protection, presenting a different approach from what is intended in 2 Samuel 18:3.

Isaiah 30:15: For thus saith the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength: and ye would not.

Contradiction with Proverbs 21:31

Suggests that safety comes from the Lord, not from preparations for battle, which differs from the practical precautions highlighted in 2 Samuel 18:3.

Proverbs 21:31: The horse [is] prepared against the day of battle: but safety [is] of the LORD. [safety: or, victory]

Paradox #1

The moral conflict in 2 Samuel 18:3 could involve the tension between the value of a leader's life versus the lives of soldiers. The leaders insist that the king's life is more valuable, which raises questions about the fairness and equality of valuing lives differently based on status or position. This could be seen as inconsistent with the idea that all lives are equally important.

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