Contradictions and Paradoxes in 2 Samuel 23:21

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 2 Samuel 23:21 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 2 Samuel 23:21. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the book, this story shows how a brave man used his cleverness and courage to win against a strong opponent by taking the enemy's weapon and using it to protect himself. It teaches that sometimes being smart and brave is more important than just being big and strong.

2 Samuel 23:21: And he slew an Egyptian, a goodly man: and the Egyptian had a spear in his hand; but he went down to him with a staff, and plucked the spear out of the Egyptian's hand, and slew him with his own spear. [a goodly...: Heb. a man of countenance, or, sight: also called, a man of great stature]

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

Matthew 5:44 instructs to love your enemies and bless those who persecute you, contradicting the act of slaying an enemy as described in 2 Samuel 23:21.

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

Romans 12:19 advises against taking revenge, whereas 2 Samuel 23:21 describes an act of taking revenge by killing an adversary.

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 Exodus 20:13

Exodus 20:13 commands "Thou shalt not kill," which contradicts the action of striking down an enemy in 2 Samuel 23:21.

Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.

Contradiction with Proverbs 25:21-22

Proverbs 25:21-22 encourages feeding and giving drink to your enemy, in contrast with the slaying of an enemy in 2 Samuel 23:21.

Proverbs 25:21-22: If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:

Contradiction with Matthew 26:52

Matthew 26:52 states that "all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword," conflicting with the commendation of a warrior's deed in 2 Samuel 23:21.

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?

Paradox #1

The potential contradiction in this verse could be the idea of using violence or killing as a means to resolve conflicts or assert dominance. This might conflict with other teachings in the Bible that emphasize peace, forgiveness, and loving one's enemies.

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