Contradiction with Matthew 5:5
While Deuteronomy 33:17 extols physical strength and grandeur ("his horns are like the horns of unicorns: with them he shall push the people together to the ends of the earth"), Matthew 5:5 highlights meekness as a virtue, stating, "Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth."
Matthew 5:5: Blessed [are] the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
Contradiction with Zechariah 4:6
Deuteronomy 33:17 speaks of military might and power, but Zechariah 4:6 focuses on spiritual strength, saying, "Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts."
Zechariah 4:6: Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This [is] the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. [might: or, army]
Contradiction with Matthew 26:52
Deuteronomy 33:17 emphasizes conquest and power, contrasting with Matthew 26:52, which reads, "Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword," highlighting a focus on peace rather than force.
Matthew 26:52: Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?
Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 12:9
In Deuteronomy 33:17, physical strength and power are celebrated, yet 2 Corinthians 12:9 states, "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness." This suggests spiritual strength through acknowledgment of one's weaknesses.
2 Corinthians 12:9: And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
Paradox #1
One potential contradiction in Deuteronomy 33:17 could be the mention of thousands or multiple groups related to Ephraim and Manasseh, which may not align with archaeological or historical records regarding the size and influence of these tribes at certain periods. The description might be seen as exaggerated or symbolic rather than a literal historical account.
Paradox #2
The verse is often interpreted as a blessing of great power and strength for a specific tribe. However, the contradiction could arise if one believes that promoting or glorifying power can lead to conflicts or aggression, which contrasts with teachings of peace and humility found in other parts of the Bible.