Contradictions and Paradoxes in 2 Samuel 23:8

Check out Contradictions Catalog of 2 Samuel 23:8 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts 2 Samuel 23:8. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of 2 Samuel, David had strong and brave warriors, and one of the greatest was a man who used his spear to defeat 800 enemies all by himself. David’s mighty men were like his superheroes, helping him to win battles.

2 Samuel 23:8: These [be] the names of the mighty men whom David had: The Tachmonite that sat in the seat, chief among the captains; the same [was] Adino the Eznite: [he lift up his spear] against eight hundred, whom he slew at one time. [The Tachmonite...: or, Joshebbassebet the Tachmonite, head of the three] [whom he...: Heb. slain] [he lift...: from (1ch:) whom he...: Heb. slain]

Contradiction with 1 Chronicles 11:11

This verse gives a different name, Jashobeam, and describes his deeds differently, mentioning he lifted up his spear against three hundred, contrasting with the eight hundred slain in 2 Samuel 23:8.

1 Chronicles 11:11: And this [is] the number of the mighty men whom David had; Jashobeam, an Hachmonite, the chief of the captains: he lifted up his spear against three hundred slain [by him] at one time. [an Hachmonite: or, son of Hachmoni]

Paradox #1

2 Samuel 23:8 might have inconsistencies with other parts of the Bible regarding the names and numbers of David's mighty warriors. Some versions and parallel passages, like 1 Chronicles 11:11, list different names or numbers, which can cause confusion or appear contradictory about who these warriors are or how many there are.

Paradox #2

The contradiction might be seen in the glorification of violence and warfare. The verse celebrates acts of strength and battle, which can conflict with messages of peace and forgiveness found in other parts of the Bible.

Paradox #3

The contradiction in "2 Samuel 23:8" arises because different translations and manuscripts of the Bible provide varying numbers regarding the achievements of the warrior mentioned. Some versions might state that he killed 800 men, while others might mention 300. This inconsistency in the numbers is where the contradiction lies.

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