Contradiction with 1 Chronicles 20:4
This verse describes a battle with the Philistines that seems similar to the one in 2 Samuel 21:15 but lists different warriors and events, suggesting a contradiction in the details of the battles.
1 Chronicles 20:4: And it came to pass after this, that there arose war at Gezer with the Philistines; at which time Sibbechai the Hushathite slew Sippai, [that was] of the children of the giant: and they were subdued. [arose: or, continued: Heb. stood] [Gezer: also called, Gob] [Sippai: also called, Saph] [the giant: or, Rapha]
Contradiction with 2 Samuel 8:1
This verse states that David subdued the Philistines, which seems to contradict the ongoing battles mentioned in 2 Samuel 21:15, implying that the Philistines were defeated earlier.
2 Samuel 8:1: And after this it came to pass, that David smote the Philistines, and subdued them: and David took Methegammah out of the hand of the Philistines. [Methegammah: or, the bridle of Ammah]
Contradiction with 2 Samuel 21:17
This verse describes David needing assistance in battle due to becoming weary, potentially contradicting his earlier portrayal as a mighty, almost invincible warrior in 2 Samuel 21:15.
2 Samuel 21:17: But Abishai the son of Zeruiah succoured him, and smote the Philistine, and killed him. Then the men of David sware unto him, saying, Thou shalt go no more out with us to battle, that thou quench not the light of Israel. [light: Heb. candle, or, lamp]
Contradiction with 1 Samuel 17:51
Depicts David's defeat of Goliath and implies a decisive victory over the Philistines, seemingly contradicting the need for repeated battles with the Philistines as described in 2 Samuel 21:15.
1 Samuel 17:51: Therefore David ran, and stood upon the Philistine, and took his sword, and drew it out of the sheath thereof, and slew him, and cut off his head therewith. And when the Philistines saw their champion was dead, they fled.
Contradiction with Psalm 18:39
This verse reflects David’s confidence in defeating enemies, which seems at odds with the struggles and ongoing warfare described in 2 Samuel 21:15.
Psalm 18:39: For thou hast girded me with strength unto the battle: thou hast subdued under me those that rose up against me. [subdued: Heb. caused to bow]
Contradiction with 2 Samuel 5:25
Chronicles David’s prior victories over the Philistines, potentially contradicting the continued conflicts with them seen in 2 Samuel 21:15 and suggesting they should have already been subdued.
2 Samuel 5:25: And David did so, as the LORD had commanded him; and smote the Philistines from Geba until thou come to Gazer. [Geba: also called, Gibeon]