Contradiction with Amos 5:21-22
These verses express God's rejection of certain sacrifices, contrasting with the acceptance of offerings in Exodus 18:12.
Amos 5:21-22: I hate, I despise your feast days, and I will not smell in your solemn assemblies. [in...: or, your holy days]
Contradiction with Isaiah 1:11
This verse questions the value of sacrifices, suggesting they are not needed, in contrast to Exodus 18:12 where sacrifices are offered.
Isaiah 1:11: To what purpose [is] the multitude of your sacrifices unto me? saith the LORD: I am full of the burnt offerings of rams, and the fat of fed beasts; and I delight not in the blood of bullocks, or of lambs, or of he goats. [he goats: Heb. great he goats]
Contradiction with Hosea 6:6
Prioritizes mercy over sacrifice, contradicting the act of offering sacrifices in Exodus 18:12.
Hosea 6:6: For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.
Contradiction with Matthew 9:13
Jesus emphasizes mercy over sacrifice, which contradicts the sacrificial act in Exodus 18:12.
Matthew 9:13: But go ye and learn what [that] meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
Contradiction with Hebrews 10:8
Highlights the insufficiency of offerings, contrasting with the sacrificial acceptance in Exodus 18:12.
Hebrews 10:8: Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and [offering] for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure [therein]; which are offered by the law;
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in Exodus 18:12 could be seen in the acceptance and participation of Jethro, a Midianite priest, in offering sacrifices to God alongside the Israelites. This might seem inconsistent since the Israelites were often directed to separate themselves from other nations and their religious practices. However, this can also be interpreted as a moment of inclusivity and recognition of universal worship of one God.