Contradiction with Exodus 18:18
Moses acknowledges he cannot bear the people's burdens alone and needs help, similar to what is stated in Deuteronomy 1:12, but the contradiction is that this was resolved previously by Jethro’s advice to appoint leaders.
Exodus 18:18: Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that [is] with thee: for this thing [is] too heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone. [Thou wilt...: Heb. Fading thou wilt fade]
Contradiction with Numbers 11:14
Moses again expresses the inability to bear the burdens of the people alone, which repeats the sentiment rather than contradicts, but the duplicity of the narrative can imply contradiction in consistency.
Numbers 11:14: I am not able to bear all this people alone, because [it is] too heavy for me.
Contradiction with Matthew 11:28-30
Jesus invites those who labor and are heavy-laden to come to Him for rest, suggesting that the burdens mentioned in Deuteronomy 1:12 can ultimately be laid upon Him, offering a different resolution to carrying burdens.
Matthew 11:28-30: Come unto me, all [ye] that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Contradiction with Galatians 6:5
Believers are instructed to bear their own burdens, which contrasts with Moses’ struggle to bear the burdens of the people in Deuteronomy 1:12, showing an individualistic view contrary to communal responsibility.
Galatians 6:5: For every man shall bear his own burden.
Paradox #1
Deuteronomy 1:12 discusses Moses expressing his inability to bear the burden of the people's disputes alone. A potential inconsistency could be in how leadership was structured. Other parts of the Bible show Moses already having help with leadership tasks, like in Exodus when Jethro advises him to appoint judges. This might make people wonder if different accounts are inconsistent about when and how leadership assistance was established.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or inconsistency in this verse might arise from the burden of leadership and responsibility. The verse shows a leader expressing the difficulty in bearing the weight of people’s disputes and problems alone. This could conflict with the idea of a supportive community where burdens are shared or where divine support is provided to overcome challenges without feeling overwhelmed.