Contradiction with Deuteronomy 24:16
This verse states that children shall not be put to death for their father's sins, contradicting the idea of executing descendants for their ancestor's actions as seen in 2 Samuel 21:6.
Deuteronomy 24:16: The fathers shall not be put to death for the children, neither shall the children be put to death for the fathers: every man shall be put to death for his own sin.
Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:20
It reiterates the principle that the soul who sins shall die, and not children for their father's sins, opposing the practice of executing descendants for their father's actions in 2 Samuel 21:6.
Ezekiel 18:20: The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.
Paradox #1
The theological conflict in this verse could be seen as an inconsistency with the biblical principle that children should not be punished for the sins of their parents. This is mentioned elsewhere in the Bible, which says everyone should be responsible for their own sins, not those committed by their ancestors.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction in 2 Samuel 21:6 could involve the issue of collective punishment, where the descendants of Saul are punished for his actions. This can seem inconsistent with other biblical passages that emphasize individual responsibility for sin, such as Ezekiel 18:20, where it is stated that a child should not bear the iniquity of the parent.
Paradox #3
The verse involves an action that can conflict with modern ethical and human rights standards. It describes a practice that might be seen as morally wrong or inhumane in contemporary society. This can lead to a conflict between ancient customs and present-day values.
Paradox #4
The contradiction in this verse could be seen in the ethical dilemma of justice versus mercy. The verse involves a decision to sacrifice individuals to atone for past wrongdoing, which raises questions about fairness and the morality of punishing people for the sins of others. This can conflict with modern views on justice, where individuals should not bear the punishment for actions they did not commit.