Contradiction with Matthew 5:16
Esther 2:20 shows Esther obeying Mordecai by not revealing her nationality, whereas Matthew 5:16 encourages believers to let their light shine before others to glorify God, implying openness rather than secrecy.
Matthew 5:16: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Contradiction with Galatians 3:28
Esther 2:20 emphasizes retaining cultural identity in secrecy, while Galatians 3:28 states that in Christ, distinctions like ethnicity or gender are irrelevant, highlighting unity over separation.
Galatians 3:28: There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
Paradox #1
One possible contradiction with Esther 2:20 could be the idea of concealing one's identity or faith. In many biblical teachings, being open and honest about one's faith is emphasized. However, in this verse, Esther follows Mordecai's advice by not revealing her Jewish identity, which might seem at odds with the biblical value of transparency about one's faith. This could raise questions about when it is appropriate to conceal one's identity for safety or strategic reasons, and how that aligns with the overall message of faithfulness and witness in the Bible.