Why Move To Egypt? Analyzing Biblical Contradictions
In this article, you will learn how Genesis 46:7 contradicts Genesis 31:3, Deuteronomy 17:16, Exodus 14:13, Numbers 14:3-4 and Hosea 11:5. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
In examining the biblical narrative, we often encounter differing messages that provoke intriguing questions. A prominent example lies in the story of Jacob's move to Egypt with his family, as described in Genesis 46:7. According to this verse, Jacob, also known as Israel, takes his children and grandchildren on an essential journey to Egypt. This seemingly divinely sanctioned event, guided by God's promise, sets the stage for future developments in the biblical saga.
However, a closer look reveals a series of contradictions to this journey. In Genesis 31:3, God instructs Jacob to return to the land of his fathers, seemingly at odds with Jacob's eventual move to Egypt. This directive highlights a contrast between God’s earlier command and the later migration, prompting questions about divine intention.
Furthermore, several other verses emphasize avoiding Egypt. Deuteronomy 17:16 warns against returning to Egypt, promoting the idea that looking back or relying on former ties might be detrimental. Exodus 14:13 and Numbers 14:3-4 also reflect negative sentiments towards Egypt, portraying it as a place of bondage and disobedience. In light of these messages, Jacob's relocation becomes puzzling.
Hosea 11:5 adds another layer by implying returning to Egypt as a form of punishment. This portrays Egypt not as a place of divine favor but as a symbol of negative consequences. The contrasting messages of a divinely guided move and warnings against returning to Egypt create a theological tension.
Imagine a family advised by an elder never to return to their old neighborhood, yet they find themselves moving back there eventually. This scenario invites reflection on the complexities of divine instruction, human agency, and the unfolding of a larger plan. The journey to Egypt, rich in symbolism, raises questions about apparent contradictions and challenges us to explore deeper meanings within these biblical texts.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Genesis 46:7 | His sons, and his sons' sons with him, his daughters, and his sons' daughters, and all his seed brought he with him into Egypt. |
| 2. | Genesis 31:3 | And the LORD said unto Jacob, Return unto the land of thy fathers, and to thy kindred; and I will be with thee. |
| 3. | Deuteronomy 17:16 | But he shall not multiply horses to himself, nor cause the people to return to Egypt, to the end that he should multiply horses: forasmuch as the LORD hath said unto you, Ye shall henceforth return no more that way. |
| 4. | Exodus 14:13 | And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever. [for the...: or, for whereas ye have seen the Egyptians to day] |
| 5. | Numbers 14:3-4 | And wherefore hath the LORD brought us unto this land, to fall by the sword, that our wives and our children should be a prey? were it not better for us to return into Egypt? |
| 6. | Hosea 11:5 | He shall not return into the land of Egypt, but the Assyrian shall be his king, because they refused to return. |