Contradiction with Exodus 20:13
This verse commands, "Thou shalt not kill," which contradicts the act of putting individuals to death as described in 2 Samuel 21:9.
Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.
Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:20
It states, "The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father," contradicting the execution of Saul’s descendants for their father’s sins as implied in 2 Samuel 21:9.
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.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 24:16
This verse says, "The fathers shall not be put to death for the children, neither shall the children be put to death for the fathers," contradicting the execution of Saul’s descendants in retribution for Saul’s actions.
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 Romans 12:19
It advises, "Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord," contradicting taking justice into human hands as seen in 2 Samuel 21:9.
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 James 2:13
It emphasizes, "For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy," contrasting with the lack of mercy shown in carrying out the executions in 2 Samuel 21:9.
James 2:13: For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. [rejoiceth: or, glorieth]
Paradox #1
The theological conflict in 2 Samuel 21:9 could arise from the tension between the act of executing individuals as justice for breaking an oath and the biblical commandment against murder. It raises questions about the morality and justice of taking lives as a form of retribution, especially considering divine laws on justice and mercy.
Paradox #2
2 Samuel 21:9 might raise concerns about justice and morality, as it depicts the execution of seven descendants of Saul to atone for his actions, which can seem inconsistent with the broader biblical principles of individual responsibility and justice. This action might appear to contradict teachings that emphasize personal accountability rather than collective punishment.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in 2 Samuel 21:9 could relate to different parts of the Bible giving varying accounts of events linked to King Saul's family and the Gibeonites. Inconsistencies might arise when comparing the actions taken against Saul's descendants with other parts of scripture that emphasize sins being borne by the individuals who committed them, not their descendants. Additionally, conflicts might emerge when considering the moral implications and alignment with laws about justice and punishment in other biblical passages.
Paradox #4
The contradiction or conflict in this verse might arise from the fact that it describes an act of violence that appears sanctioned or allowed by God, which seems to be in conflict with other teachings in the Bible that promote forgiveness, mercy, and not taking vengeance. This can create a challenge when trying to understand how these actions fit with a loving and just God.