Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Esther 9:16 depicts the Jews striking down their enemies, whereas Matthew 5:44 teaches to love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with Romans 12:19
Esther 9:16 describes the Jews avenging themselves, yet Romans 12:19 advises against seeking personal vengeance, emphasizing that vengeance belongs to God.
Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Contradiction with Proverbs 24:17
Esther 9:16 shows the Jews rejoicing in their victory over enemies, while Proverbs 24:17 cautions against rejoicing when your enemy falls.
Proverbs 24:17: Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:
Contradiction with Luke 6:27
Esther 9:16 involves physical action against enemies, whereas Luke 6:27 encourages loving your enemies and doing good to those who hate you.
Luke 6:27: But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,
Contradiction with Exodus 14:14
Esther 9:16 depicts Jews taking matters into their own hands to defend themselves, in contrast to Exodus 14:14, which says that the Lord will fight for you and you need only to be still.
Exodus 14:14: The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.
Paradox #1
The possible contradiction with Esther 9:16 might relate to the issue of violence and retribution. In the Bible, there is often an emphasis on forgiveness and turning the other cheek, as seen in the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament. However, in Esther 9:16, the Jews are depicted as defending themselves and defeating their enemies. This could seem inconsistent with a message of forgiveness and peace, presenting a challenge in reconciling the two approaches.
Paradox #2
One potential contradiction in this context is the large number of people reportedly killed by the Jews (75,000) without any mention of retribution or major conflict arising from this event in historical records outside the Bible. This raises questions about the plausibility of such a large-scale event occurring without additional historical documentation.
Paradox #3
The moral conflict in that verse might arise from the themes of violence and retribution. It tells of the Jews defending themselves and killing their enemies, which some may see as conflicting with teachings on forgiveness and peace. This could be seen as a contradiction with other biblical messages that advocate for mercy and turning the other cheek.