Contradiction with Exodus 21:2
Deuteronomy 15:16 allows a servant to choose to stay permanently, while Exodus 21:2 mandates freedom after six years without such an option.
Exodus 21:2: If thou buy an Hebrew servant, six years he shall serve: and in the seventh he shall go out free for nothing.
Contradiction with Leviticus 25:39-40
Deuteronomy 15:16 suggests a lifelong option, contradicting Leviticus's limit to temporary servitude for Israelites until the year of jubilee.
Leviticus 25:39-40: And if thy brother [that dwelleth] by thee be waxen poor, and be sold unto thee; thou shalt not compel him to serve as a bondservant: [compel...: Heb. serve thyself with him with the service, etc]
Paradox #1
Deuteronomy 15:16 could present a contradiction or inconsistency when considering the idea of freedom versus servitude. On one hand, the surrounding context in Deuteronomy discusses the release of servants after a period of time, which suggests a value placed on personal freedom. However, the allowance for a servant to voluntarily remain with their master could conflict with this principle of freedom, as it involves someone choosing to stay in a situation where they lack complete autonomy. This could raise questions about the true nature of freedom and consent within the societal structures of the time.