Contradiction with Exodus 21:2
Deuteronomy 15:18 speaks of releasing servants in the seventh year freely, while Exodus 21:2 allows for the purchase of Hebrew servants with the condition of release in the seventh year.
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 25:44-46
Deuteronomy 15:18 speaks of releasing servants after six years, whereas Leviticus 25:44-46 allows for perpetual slavery of foreign servants.
Leviticus 25:44-46: Both thy bondmen, and thy bondmaids, which thou shalt have, [shall be] of the heathen that are round about you; of them shall ye buy bondmen and bondmaids.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 7:21-23
Deuteronomy 15:18 discusses the release of servants, while 1 Corinthians 7:21-23 encourages servants to seek freedom if possible.
1 Corinthians 7:21-23: Art thou called [being] a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use [it] rather.
Contradiction with Philemon 1:16
Deuteronomy 15:18 discusses releasing servants as free, while Philemon 1:16 speaks of receiving a former servant back as more than a servant, as a beloved brother.
Philemon 1:16: Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord?
Paradox #1
Deuteronomy 15:18 could be seen as inconsistent with other parts of the Bible regarding the treatment and release of servants or slaves. In some passages, there appear to be strict rules and harsh treatment related to slavery, while in others, like this one, there is an emphasis on fair treatment and eventual freedom. This can seem contradictory if trying to determine a consistent Biblical stance on slavery.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction or inconsistency with Deuteronomy 15:18 could be with the concept of slavery or servitude in different parts of the Bible. Some passages seem to accept or regulate slavery, while others emphasize freedom and equality, such as in the New Testament. This can lead to discussions about how to interpret these references to servitude and their relevance to moral and ethical teachings.
Paradox #3
The verse advises kind treatment of servants as a form of justice, which can seem inconsistent with other parts of the Bible where harsher treatment of servants is permitted or described. This difference in guidance might cause some confusion about the moral standards being advocated.
Paradox #4
The contradiction or conflict might be seen in the different ways people relate to issues of servitude and fairness. While this verse addresses releasing servants and suggests generosity, some might argue it highlights inconsistency by accepting servitude in the first place. The conflict arises in balancing the acceptance of servitude with the call for fair and generous treatment.