Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
This verse contradicts 2 Samuel 8:2 by teaching to love your enemies and bless those who curse you, contrasting with the subdual and execution of the Moabites.
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 12:20
Here we're instructed to feed our enemies if they are hungry, in opposition to the harsh treatment described in 2 Samuel 8:2.
Romans 12:20: Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
Contradiction with Proverbs 25:21
Advises providing for an enemy in need, directly conflicting with the lethal actions against Moabites shown in 2 Samuel 8:2.
Proverbs 25:21: If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:
Contradiction with Luke 6:27-28
Advocates for loving and doing good to enemies, which stands contrary to the actions towards the Moabites described in 2 Samuel 8:2.
Luke 6:27-28: But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
Paradox #1
The verse in question describes an action taken by King David, which can be seen as inconsistent with the more peaceful and merciful teachings found elsewhere in the Bible, such as those preached by Jesus in the New Testament. This can appear as a contradiction between the Old Testament depictions of warfare and justice versus the New Testament focus on love and forgiveness.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction or inconsistency could relate to the actions taken in the verse, where there is a harsh treatment of a defeated people. This might seem to conflict with teachings of mercy and compassion found elsewhere in the Bible. Some readers might find it challenging to reconcile this with the overall message of love and forgiveness present in other scriptures.
Paradox #3
The verse in question describes David's treatment of the Moabites, involving a method of measuring them with a line. A possible contradiction or inconsistency arises when this event is compared with 1 Samuel 22:3-4. In that earlier account, David entrusts his parents to the king of Moab for protection. The harsh treatment of Moabites later in 2 Samuel 8:2 seems inconsistent with the previous favorable relationship, raising questions about what might have changed between the two events.
Paradox #4
The contradiction in this verse arises from the action of subjugating and executing people, which can conflict with values of compassion, mercy, and the sanctity of human life. This can be seen as inconsistent with the idea of loving and valuing all individuals.