Contradiction with Exodus 11:7
This verse states that against the children of Israel, not even a dog will move its tongue, implying that there will be peace and no harm, which contrasts with the great cry and death in Egypt depicted in Exodus 12:30.
Exodus 11:7: But against any of the children of Israel shall not a dog move his tongue, against man or beast: that ye may know how that the LORD doth put a difference between the Egyptians and Israel.
Contradiction with 1 Samuel 15:29
This verse claims that God does not change His mind or go back on His word, which contrasts with the imposition of the plague after previous plagues failed to secure the Israelites' release.
1 Samuel 15:29: And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he [is] not a man, that he should repent. [Strength: or, Eternity, or, Victory]
Contradiction with Habakkuk 1:13
This verse states that God is of purer eyes than to behold evil, and cannot look on iniquity, which seems contrary to the active role in bringing about the death of the firstborn in Egypt.
Habakkuk 1:13: [Thou art] of purer eyes than to behold evil, and canst not look on iniquity: wherefore lookest thou upon them that deal treacherously, [and] holdest thy tongue when the wicked devoureth [the man that is] more righteous than he? [iniquity: or, grievance]
Contradiction with James 1:13
This verse claims God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempts He any man, contradicting the action of sending a plague that results in suffering.
James 1:13: Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: [evil: or, evils]
Contradiction with Numbers 23:19
It states God does not lie or repent, contrasting with the necessitated actions due to Pharaoh's hard heart.
Numbers 23:19: God [is] not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do [it]? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?
Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:32
This verse says God takes no pleasure in the death of anyone, which contradicts the event of striking down the firstborn.
Ezekiel 18:32: For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord GOD: wherefore turn [yourselves], and live ye. [yourselves: or, others]
Paradox #1
The contradiction in Exodus 12:30 could arise from the depiction of God causing suffering and death, which may conflict with the idea of a loving and merciful God. This creates tension for some readers between God’s justice in punishing the Egyptians and the distressing nature of the event.
Paradox #2
Historical contradiction or inconsistency could stem from the lack of archaeological evidence supporting the widespread death of firstborns as described in ancient Egypt. Many historians and scholars point out that there are no Egyptian records that corroborate such a large-scale event, which would presumably have a significant impact on historical records if it had occurred.
Paradox #3
The verse describes a widespread death event affecting all firstborns in Egypt simultaneously, which lacks historical or scientific evidence to support such a sudden and specific occurrence. Additionally, the logistics of such an event, from a natural standpoint, are not explained by any known scientific mechanism. Thus, the accounts in religious scripture can conflict with empirical historical and scientific records.
Paradox #4
The contradiction in Exodus 12:30 could be the idea of a loving and just God allowing or causing widespread suffering and loss of life. It might seem inconsistent with the concept of a benevolent deity to inflict such pain on innocent children and families. This can create a conflict in understanding the nature of divine justice and mercy.