2 Samuel 3:7 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to the author of the book, this verse tells us about a man named Ishbosheth who was upset with another man named Abner because he thought Abner was being mean by taking something that belonged to Ishbosheth's family. This story teaches that feelings can get hurt when people think others are not being fair or respectful.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

Contradicts taking of a concubine and conflict over it by emphasizing love and forgiveness for enemies.

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

Contradicts taking vengeance in disputes as vengeance belongs to God.

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 1 Corinthians 7:2

Contradicts by advocating for monogamous relationships to avoid fornication.

1 Corinthians 7:2: Nevertheless, [to avoid] fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.

Contradiction with Galatians 5:19

Lists adultery and fornication as works of the flesh, contradicting actions surrounding concubines.

Galatians 5:19: Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are [these]; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,

Contradiction with Ephesians 5:25

Emphasizes love and sacrifice in marriage, contradicting the act of claiming a concubine.

Ephesians 5:25: Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

Paradox #1

The potential contradiction or inconsistency related to 2 Samuel 3:7 might involve the relationship between Abner and Rizpah. In 2 Samuel, Abner takes Rizpah, Saul's concubine, which challenges Ish-bosheth's authority and causes conflict. This raises questions about succession rights and power struggles within Saul's family, which may not align perfectly with other historical or biblical accounts of how such matters were typically handled in ancient Israelite society.

Paradox #2

The moral conflict in 2 Samuel 3:7 could arise from the issues of power dynamics and consent. The verse involves a dispute over a concubine, which can raise questions about the treatment and autonomy of women in biblical times. It reflects societal norms of ownership and control over women, conflicting with modern values of equality and individual rights.