Contradiction with Numbers 20:12
This verse directly states that because Moses did not believe in God to sanctify Him in the eyes of the Israelites, he would not bring the congregation into the promised land, which emphasizes his lack of faith rather than the events of Meribah as the sole reason for his punishment.
Numbers 20:12: And the LORD spake unto Moses and Aaron, Because ye believed me not, to sanctify me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore ye shall not bring this congregation into the land which I have given them.
Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:20
This verse emphasizes individual accountability and suggests that the sins of one person should not result in punishment for another, which contrasts with the idea of collective consequences portrayed in Deuteronomy 32:51.
Ezekiel 18:20: The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.
Contradiction with Isaiah 1:18
This verse speaks of forgiveness and redemption despite sins, contradicting the finality of Moses' punishment at Meribah as described in Deuteronomy 32:51.
Isaiah 1:18: Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
Contradiction with Matthew 6:14-15
These verses highlight the concept of forgiveness as opposed to holding onto grievances, contrasting with the punishment imposed on Moses for the incident at Meribah described in Deuteronomy 32:51.
Matthew 6:14-15: For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:
Contradiction with Psalm 103:10
This verse indicates that God does not deal with us according to our sins, which contradicts the punitive action against Moses in Deuteronomy 32:51 based on his actions at Meribah.
Psalm 103:10: He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.
Paradox #1
Deuteronomy 32:51 discusses the consequence of failing to honor God’s command in a specific situation. A potential contradiction might arise when considering God's mercy and forgiveness vs. the punishment described, as it could seem inconsistent with the idea of forgiveness. However, within the context of divine justice and the covenantal relationship, many theologians argue no contradiction exists.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction relates to earlier events in the Bible. Deuteronomy 32:51 refers to Moses not being allowed to enter the Promised Land because he disobeyed God at the waters of Meribah. However, in Numbers 20, there is mention of Moses striking the rock to bring forth water instead of speaking to it as instructed by God, which is why he faces consequences. Some might see inconsistency in the portrayal of Moses' actions and the reasons for his punishment across different parts of the text.
Paradox #3
This verse could be seen as a moral conflict because it highlights the strict consequences for disobedience, despite past achievements or faithfulness. It can seem harsh that one mistake leads to such significant repercussions, raising questions about fairness and forgiveness.