Contradiction with Malachi 1:8
This verse highlights that offering blemished or defective sacrifices is disrespectful, whereas Deuteronomy 15:21 discusses not sacrificing such animals to God.
Malachi 1:8: And if ye offer the blind for sacrifice, [is it] not evil? and if ye offer the lame and sick, [is it] not evil? offer it now unto thy governor; will he be pleased with thee, or accept thy person? saith the LORD of hosts. [for: Heb. to]
Contradiction with Leviticus 22:20
This verse forbids offering anything with a blemish as it will not be accepted, aligning with the spirit of Deuteronomy 15:21, but could be seen as contradictory because it emphasizes complete prohibition rather than merely non-sacrifice.
Leviticus 22:20: [But] whatsoever hath a blemish, [that] shall ye not offer: for it shall not be acceptable for you.
Contradiction with Hebrews 9:14
This verse speaks of the ultimate sacrifice being Jesus, free from blemish, contrasting with the physical defect emphasis in Deuteronomy 15:21.
Hebrews 9:14: How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? [spot: or, fault]
Paradox #1
Deuteronomy 15:21 talks about not sacrificing animals with defects. One potential contradiction is that, in ancient times, there were various practices and beliefs regarding animal sacrifices in different cultures and even within the Hebrew Bible itself. Some parts of the Bible seem more focused on the intent behind sacrifices rather than the physical condition of the animal. This can create inconsistency with the strict rules about animal defects.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in this context is the emphasis on the physical flaw of an animal as a reason for its unsuitability for sacrifice. From a scientific point of view, the physical condition such as a defect or injury does not affect the symbolic purpose of a ritual sacrifice. It reflects an ancient cultural value system rather than a scientific principle related to physical attributes of living beings.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in this verse arises from the idea that certain animals with defects should not be accepted or used for offerings, which can be seen as conflicting with the belief that all creatures are created by God and thus have inherent value and worth. This can challenge the idea of equality and fairness in how all of God's creations are treated.