Contradiction with Leviticus 25:39-40
This passage allows for Israelites to become hired servants if they fall into poverty, which contrasts with the strict command to not oppress hired servants.
Leviticus 25:39-40: And if thy brother [that dwelleth] by thee be waxen poor, and be sold unto thee; thou shalt not compel him to serve as a bondservant: [compel...: Heb. serve thyself with him with the service, etc]
Contradiction with Ephesians 6:5
Instructs servants to obey their earthly masters, suggesting a hierarchical relationship that differs from the egalitarian tone of Deuteronomy 24:14.
Ephesians 6:5: Servants, be obedient to them that are [your] masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;
Contradiction with Colossians 3:22
Advises servants to obey in everything those who are their earthly masters, presenting a more submissive stance than the protection against oppression in Deuteronomy 24:14.
Colossians 3:22: Servants, obey in all things [your] masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:
Contradiction with 1 Peter 2:18
Encourages servants to submit to their masters with respect, whether they are good and gentle or harsh, which can be seen as contradicting the fairness sought in Deuteronomy 24:14.
1 Peter 2:18: Servants, [be] subject to [your] masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward.
Paradox #1
Deuteronomy 24:14 instructs not to oppress hired workers who are poor and needy. This could be seen as inconsistent with other instances in the Bible where there are references to slavery or harsher treatment of servants. This tension lies in balancing the ethical treatment of workers with other verses that accept hierarchical structures.
Paradox #2
Deuteronomy 24:14 advises fair treatment of workers, especially those who are poor. A potential conflict could arise with parts of the Bible that depict instances of harsh labor conditions or different instructions about how to treat workers or slaves. This could seem inconsistent with the compassionate and fair treatment advised in Deuteronomy. However, interpretations and contexts vary, so some may not see this as a contradiction.
Paradox #3
Deuteronomy 24:14 advises against oppressing a hired servant who is poor and needy. A contradiction or inconsistency could be seen in how, despite this guidance, various societies throughout history have practiced systems like slavery or unjust labor practices that oppressed workers. This shows a conflict between the biblical instruction and historical actions.
Paradox #4
The contradiction or conflict might arise from the fact that while the verse emphasizes fair treatment of workers, some people may argue that other sections in the Bible seem to support practices like slavery, which contradicts this principle of fairness and just treatment.