Can We Reconcile the Call for Compassion with Ancient Practices of Sacrifice?
In this article, you will learn how Deuteronomy 12:31 contradicts Exodus 20:13, Matthew 5:44, Romans 12:19, Leviticus 19:18, Matthew 22:39 and Isaiah 1:17. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The biblical narrative is woven with a variety of teachings and commands, some of which seem to stand in stark contrast to one another. This is particularly evident when examining the directives around worship and the sanctity of life.
Deuteronomy 12:31 urges believers to shun practices like child sacrifice, actions that are described as deeply abominable to God. This practice stands in direct opposition to Exodus 20:13's commandment, "Thou shalt not kill," which upholds the sanctity of life. The contradiction emerges from the tension between renouncing barbaric rituals and the undeniable command against taking life.
Furthermore, Matthew 5:44's call to "love your enemies" encourages love and compassion, even towards those who oppose us. This sentiment is in direct contrast to the violent practices denounced in Deuteronomy. How do we reconcile teaching that embodies such compassion with ancient customs that were directed at appeasing false deities?
Romans 12:19 advises against personal vengeance, stating that wrath is God's domain. Aligning with this, is it conceivable that any sacrificial acts driven by the desire to appease could harmonize with divine teachings that caution against taking revenge?
Leviticus 19:18 and Matthew 22:39 both champion the principle of loving one’s neighbor as oneself. These instructions directly oppose acts of harm towards innocents, as suggested by Deuteronomy's warnings against harmful practices. These teachings advocate a life of compassion and respect, challenging believers to transcend violence with love.
Finally, Isaiah 1:17 calls for justice and care for society's vulnerable—a directive directly contradicted by narratives of violence. These seemingly contradictory messages in the text invite reflection: How do we hold these teachings in balance while striving to embody compassion in our lives? Understanding these depths can guide us in navigating the complexities of faith and morality.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Deuteronomy 12:31 | Thou shalt not do so unto the LORD thy God: for every abomination to the LORD, which he hateth, have they done unto their gods; for even their sons and their daughters they have burnt in the fire to their gods. [to the: Heb. of the] |
| 2. | Exodus 20:13 | Thou shalt not kill. |
| 3. | 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; |
| 4. | 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. |
| 5. | Leviticus 19:18 | Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD. |
| 6. | Matthew 22:39 | On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. |
| 7. | Isaiah 1:17 | Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow. [relieve: or, righten] |