Contradictions and Paradoxes in Deuteronomy 15:3

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Deuteronomy 15:3 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Deuteronomy 15:3. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Moses, people could ask someone from another country to pay back what they owe, but they should forgive the debts of their fellow Israelites. This was a way to be kind and help each other within their own community.

Deuteronomy 15:3: Of a foreigner thou mayest exact [it again]: but [that] which is thine with thy brother thine hand shall release;

Contradiction with Proverbs 19:17

This verse suggests lending to the poor is like lending to the Lord, indicating an expectation of kindness and forgiveness, whereas Deuteronomy 15:3 allows enforcing debts on foreigners.

Proverbs 19:17: He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again. [that which...: or, his deed]

Contradiction with Matthew 5:42

This verse encourages giving to those who ask and not turning away borrowers, which contrasts with enforcing debts selectively as instructed in Deuteronomy 15:3.

Matthew 5:42: Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.

Contradiction with Luke 6:35

This verse advises loving enemies and lending without expecting anything in return, contradicting the selective debt enforcement allowed in Deuteronomy 15:3.

Luke 6:35: But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and [to] the evil.

Paradox #1

Deuteronomy 15:3 deals with the distinction between foreign and Israelite debts, forgiving debts for fellow Israelites while allowing for the collection of debts from foreigners. A contradiction or conflict could arise with the principle of loving one's neighbor as expressed elsewhere in the Bible. Some may see a tension between this verse and the broader biblical call to treat everyone with love and fairness, regardless of their background.

Paradox #2

Deuteronomy 15:3 might seem to conflict with teachings about fairness and equality because it differentiates between debts owed by Israelites and those owed by foreigners. This could appear inconsistent with concepts of treating everyone equally.

Paradox #3

This verse talks about the cancellation of debts and makes a distinction between Israelites and foreigners. A potential conflict arises when comparing it to other biblical teachings that promote equal treatment and fairness towards all people, which might seem inconsistent with the idea of treating foreigners differently in this context.

Paradox #4

Deuteronomy 15:3 could be seen as morally inconsistent because it allows for different treatment of debts between Israelites and foreigners. This selective application of debt forgiveness might be viewed as unfair or unjust, as it treats people differently based solely on their nationality or community membership.

Disclaimer: The content provided at PolarBible.com is for educational purposes only. Readers have the full right to agree or disagree with the interpretations and conclusions presented. We take no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken based on the information shared as Polar Verses.