Contradiction with 1 Chronicles 21:12
This verse contradicts 2 Samuel 24:13 by specifying different durations for the famine: three years in 2 Samuel 24:13, and three years of famine or three months of devastation by foes in 1 Chronicles 21:12.
1 Chronicles 21:12: Either three years' famine; or three months to be destroyed before thy foes, while that the sword of thine enemies overtaketh [thee]; or else three days the sword of the LORD, even the pestilence, in the land, and the angel of the LORD destroying throughout all the coasts of Israel. Now therefore advise thyself what word I shall bring again to him that sent me.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in 2 Samuel 24:13 is with 1 Chronicles 21:12. In 2 Samuel, the number of years for one of David's punishment choices is different compared to 1 Chronicles, where a different duration is mentioned for the same choice. This can appear inconsistent in terms of the details of the punishment offered.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction arises when comparing "2 Samuel 24:13" with "1 Chronicles 21:12" regarding the length of famine offered as a choice to David. In 2 Samuel, seven years of famine are mentioned, while in 1 Chronicles, it states three years. This difference in duration is seen as an inconsistency between the two accounts.
Paradox #3
The contradiction lies in the differing accounts of the period of famine offered as a choice for punishment. In 2 Samuel 24:13, it mentions seven years of famine, while in 1 Chronicles 21:12, it mentions three years of famine for the same event. This inconsistency can be puzzling to readers.
Paradox #4
The potential contradiction with the Bible verse in question occurs when comparing two different accounts of the same event in the Bible. In 2 Samuel 24:13, there is a reference to a period of "seven years" of famine as part of the choices offered to David, while a parallel account of the story in 1 Chronicles 21:12 mentions "three years" of famine. The inconsistency here is the difference in the length of time mentioned for the famine between these two accounts.
Paradox #5
2 Samuel 24:13 presents a situation where a choice must be made between three types of punishment from God, which may seem morally conflicted. The contradiction lies in the idea of having to choose between severe consequences, implying a lack of compassion or unjust punishment because of David's action, affecting the broader population rather than just the individual responsible. This could conflict with the concept of a just and merciful God.
Paradox #6
The contradiction involves a discrepancy with another verse. In 2 Samuel 24:13, the prophet Gad gives David three punishment options, one of which is seven years of famine. However, in 1 Chronicles 21:12, describing the same event, the period of famine is three years. This difference in the number of years is the inconsistency.