Contradiction with Exodus 20:17
Both verses list the commandment against coveting, yet they differ in wording and order, leading to interpretations of the emphasis and nature of coveting.
Exodus 20:17: Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that [is] thy neighbour's.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:28
Deuteronomy 5:21 focuses on outward actions of coveting, while Matthew 5:28 emphasizes inward lustful intentions, expanding the commandment's scope.
Matthew 5:28: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
Contradiction with Romans 7:7
This verse notes that coveting is sinful because the law reveals sin, somewhat contradicting the implied inherent sinfulness of coveting in Deuteronomy 5:21.
Romans 7:7: What shall we say then? [Is] the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. [lust: or, concupiscence]
Contradiction with Philippians 4:11
Paul's teaching on contentment in all circumstances presents a contrast to the struggle against coveting depicted in Deuteronomy 5:21.
Philippians 4:11: Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, [therewith] to be content.
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 6:6-8
These verses emphasize godliness with contentment as great gain, which indirectly contradicts the strife implied by the warning against coveting.
1 Timothy 6:6-8: But godliness with contentment is great gain.
Paradox #1
One possible contradiction with Deuteronomy 5:21 might be related to differing interpretations of covetousness across biblical texts. This verse focuses on not coveting, yet other parts of the Bible highlight human desires and ambitions differently, which can create tension in understanding how desire should be approached in a spiritual context.
Paradox #2
Deuteronomy 5:21 talks about not wanting things that belong to others, like their property or spouse. The moral conflict could be that in some parts of the Bible, there are stories where characters do take or desire things belonging to others, sometimes even with God's approval or without punishment. This might seem inconsistent with the commandment not to covet.