Contradiction with Genesis 21:10
This verse shows a wife demanding the inheritance be passed to her child, which contradicts the fixed norm of primogeniture suggested in Deuteronomy 21:16.
Genesis 21:10: Wherefore she said unto Abraham, Cast out this bondwoman and her son: for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, [even] with Isaac.
Contradiction with Genesis 48:14
Jacob deliberately gives the greater blessing to the younger son, contradicting the inheritance rights for the firstborn suggested in Deuteronomy 21:16.
Genesis 48:14: And Israel stretched out his right hand, and laid [it] upon Ephraim's head, who [was] the younger, and his left hand upon Manasseh's head, guiding his hands wittingly; for Manasseh [was] the firstborn.
Contradiction with 1 Chronicles 5:1-2
The birthright of Reuben, the firstborn, is given to Joseph, which contradicts the fixed inheritance rights of the firstborn described in Deuteronomy 21:16.
1 Chronicles 5:1-2: Now the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel, (for he [was] the firstborn; but, forasmuch as he defiled his father's bed, his birthright was given unto the sons of Joseph the son of Israel: and the genealogy is not to be reckoned after the birthright.
Contradiction with Romans 9:12-13
Paul cites God choosing the younger over the older, contrary to the typical rights articulated in Deuteronomy 21:16.
Romans 9:12-13: It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. [elder: or, greater] [younger: or, lesser]
Paradox #1
Deuteronomy 21:16 could present a contradiction when compared to the broader biblical principle of fairness and equality. The verse deals with inheritance laws that prioritize the firstborn, even from a less favored wife, which can conflict with the overall biblical messages of all individuals being valued equally by God. This situation could be seen as inconsistent with the New Testament teachings where the emphasis is more on spiritual equality rather than birth status or family dynamics.
Paradox #2
The potential doctrinal conflict in Deuteronomy 21:16 involves the issue of inheritance rights. In this verse, there is an emphasis on the rights of the firstborn son, regardless of parental preference or favoritism. This could contradict situations in other parts of the Bible where God's favor or blessing does not align with human customs of firstborn rights, such as with Jacob and Esau or Joseph and his brothers.
Paradox #3
This verse could create tension with modern views on inheritance and gender equality. Traditionally, inheritance laws favored the firstborn male, but different cultures and times have seen shifts towards more equal distribution regardless of birth order or gender. These differences can create a contradiction or conflict between ancient practices outlined in the text and contemporary values of equality.
Paradox #4
The contradiction in this verse can arise from the practice of inheritance rights favoring certain children over others. This might conflict with contemporary views on equality and fairness, where all children are often seen as deserving equal treatment, regardless of parental preference or the circumstances of their birth.