Contradictions and Paradoxes in Deuteronomy 20:14

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Deuteronomy 20:14 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Deuteronomy 20:14. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Moses, God told the people that they could keep the women, children, animals, and treasures from the cities they conquered. This was seen as a gift from God after winning a battle.

Deuteronomy 20:14: But the women, and the little ones, and the cattle, and all that is in the city, [even] all the spoil thereof, shalt thou take unto thyself; and thou shalt eat the spoil of thine enemies, which the LORD thy God hath given thee. [take: Heb. spoil]

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

While Deuteronomy 20:14 permits taking spoils from enemies, Matthew 5:44 teaches to love and do good to enemies.

Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

Contradiction with Exodus 20:13

Deuteronomy 20:14 involves taking possessions after war, while Exodus 20:13 commands not to kill, implying preservation rather than destruction.

Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.

Contradiction with Luke 6:27

Deuteronomy 20:14 discusses capturing and possessing, whereas Luke 6:27 instructs to love and bless those who might oppose you.

Luke 6:27: But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,

Contradiction with Romans 12:20

Deuteronomy 20:14 refers to seizing goods and people in war, but Romans 12:20 suggests providing and caring even for one's enemy.

Romans 12:20: Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.

Paradox #1

One potential contradiction in Deuteronomy 20:14 is the moral conflict between the concept of a loving and just God and the commands for war and the treatment of captives. This can seem inconsistent with the messages of compassion and mercy found elsewhere in the Bible.

Paradox #2

The potential contradiction or conflict in that verse could be about the ethical issues surrounding warfare and the treatment of people during war, which might seem inconsistent with other biblical messages about love, compassion, and the value of all human life.

Paradox #3

This verse discusses taking spoils and captives in war. The contradiction or conflict lies in its acceptance of actions that may conflict with modern ethical views on human rights and warfare. Ancient practices described in the verse differ from contemporary values and legal standards, leading to moral and ethical debates.

Paradox #4

This verse involves directives related to war practices and taking captives, which can be in conflict with modern ethical beliefs and human rights standards. It may contradict contemporary scientific understanding of human rights, equality, and the treatment of individuals, as these standards emphasize the dignity and respect for all people, regardless of circumstances.

Paradox #5

Deuteronomy 20:14 deals with the treatment of captives in warfare, instructing that women, children, and other resources be taken as plunder. A moral conflict arises when comparing this directive to the broader biblical themes of compassion, mercy, and treating others as one wishes to be treated. This creates a tension between the harsh treatment of captives and the ideals of kindness and respect for all individuals.

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