Contradiction with 1 Samuel 8:5
This verse depicts the Israelites asking for a king to judge them like other nations, although Deuteronomy 17:15 instructs appointing a king from among their brethren, suggesting a divine-led appointment rather than choosing based on desires to be like other nations.
1 Samuel 8:5: And said unto him, Behold, thou art old, and thy sons walk not in thy ways: now make us a king to judge us like all the nations.
Contradiction with Hosea 8:4
Indicates that Israel set up kings but not by God and made princes, showing a human-led appointment contrasting with the divine selection process suggested in Deuteronomy 17:15.
Hosea 8:4: They have set up kings, but not by me: they have made princes, and I knew [it] not: of their silver and their gold have they made them idols, that they may be cut off.
Contradiction with Judges 9:22-23
Abimelech becomes king through human schemes, which contrasts with the God-ordained process outlined in Deuteronomy 17:15, where a king should be chosen from among the brethren by God.
Judges 9:22-23: When Abimelech had reigned three years over Israel,
Paradox #1
Deuteronomy 17:15 could be seen as having a contradiction with the concept of God's universal sovereignty and acceptance of all people. This verse suggests appointing a king from among one's own people, which might seem inconsistent with the idea that God's leadership and blessings are meant for all nations and peoples, without discrimination.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction could arise from the requirement to appoint a king from among the Israelites themselves, which might conflict with the later acceptance of non-Israelites or gentiles in leadership roles, especially in the context of the New Testament's more inclusive messages. However, this is often seen as a cultural or historical requirement rather than a permanent spiritual doctrine.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in this context arises from the instruction that the Israelites should not choose a foreigner as their king but must select one of their own people. This instruction seems inconsistent with later events in biblical history where foreign influences and intermarriages were evident, sometimes even among leaders, which suggests challenges in adhering to this command. Additionally, the command appears to be at odds with the earlier acceptance of leaders from outside Israel in certain roles, as seen in the story of Joseph in Egypt or Moses' Midianite connections.
Paradox #4
The contradiction or conflict could be seen in the idea of choosing a leader "from among your own people." This might seem at odds with values of inclusivity and equality, as it excludes the possibility of appointing a foreigner or outsider as a leader, which could be seen as limiting and discriminatory.