Contradiction with 1 Kings 10:26-28
These verses describe Solomon amassing horses and chariots from Egypt, which contradicts the command in Deuteronomy 17:16 not to multiply horses or return to Egypt to acquire more.
1 Kings 10:26-28: And Solomon gathered together chariots and horsemen: and he had a thousand and four hundred chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen, whom he bestowed in the cities for chariots, and with the king at Jerusalem.
Contradiction with 2 Chronicles 1:16-17
This passage outlines Solomon's importation of horses from Egypt and other lands, contrary to Deuteronomy 17:16, which forbids multiplying horses and returning to Egypt for them.
2 Chronicles 1:16-17: And Solomon had horses brought out of Egypt, and linen yarn: the king's merchants received the linen yarn at a price. [Solomon...: Heb. the going forth of the horses which was Solomon's]
Paradox #1
Deuteronomy 17:16 advises against a king acquiring many horses, especially from Egypt. The contradiction arises when comparing this to the actions of King Solomon, who is described in 1 Kings 10:26-29 as having a large number of horses and importing them from Egypt. This creates a conflict between the command and Solomon's behavior.
Paradox #2
Some people see a contradiction because Deuteronomy 17:16 advises a king against multiplying horses, especially from Egypt, to prevent reliance on military might. Yet, other parts of the Bible, like Solomon’s story, show a king having many horses and even importing them from Egypt. This can seem inconsistent with the original advice.
Paradox #3
The contradiction related to this verse could be the fact that, despite the instruction given, King Solomon in later biblical narratives amassed a large number of horses and chariots, particularly from Egypt, which goes against the guidance provided in this verse. This inconsistency highlights the challenge of the kings following the specific commands laid out for them.
Paradox #4
Deuteronomy 17:16 could have a contradiction because it advises against multiplying horses, which may seem inconsistent with other parts of the Bible where wealth and military strength are valued. This creates a conflict between the advice to avoid excessive military power and the importance of defending and strengthening a nation.