Contradictions and Paradoxes in Deuteronomy 17:12

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Deuteronomy 17:12 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Deuteronomy 17:12. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Christian understanding, Moses, who is believed to have written this book, is communicating that people should listen and follow the instructions of the leaders God has chosen, like priests and judges. If someone stubbornly refuses to listen, they might face serious consequences to help keep the community safe and good.

Deuteronomy 17:12: And the man that will do presumptuously, and will not hearken unto the priest that standeth to minister there before the LORD thy God, or unto the judge, even that man shall die: and thou shalt put away the evil from Israel. [and will...: Heb. not to hearken]

Contradiction with Matthew 7:1

This verse contradicts Deuteronomy 17:12 as it emphasizes not to judge others, while Deuteronomy 17:12 enforces judgment and punishment for disobedience.

Matthew 7:1: Judge not, that ye be not judged.

Contradiction with John 8:7

This verse shows Jesus advocating for forgiveness over punishment, contradicting Deuteronomy 17:12's prescription of death for defiance.

John 8:7: So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.

Contradiction with James 2:13

This verse underlines mercy triumphing over judgment, contrasting with Deuteronomy 17:12's lack of mercy for not heeding authority.

James 2:13: For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. [rejoiceth: or, glorieth]

Contradiction with Romans 12:19

This verse advises against enacting personal vengeance, whereas Deuteronomy 17:12 mandates a strict penalty from the community or authorities.

Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:39

This verse encourages turning the other cheek instead of punitive measures suggested in Deuteronomy 17:12.

Matthew 5:39: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

Paradox #1

A potential contradiction with Deuteronomy 17:12 is the overall consistency of this directive with the historical practice of executing individuals for disobeying religious authority. In ancient Israelite society, enforcement might not have always followed this directive due to evolving legal and societal norms over time. The severity of punishment described might not have been consistently applied across different periods of historical Israel.

Paradox #2

The contradiction or conflict in this verse might arise from the harshness of the prescribed punishment, which could be seen as conflicting with more compassionate teachings found elsewhere in the Bible. This could lead to questions about the balance between justice and mercy.

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