Contradiction with Genesis 15:13
Contradicts Exodus 1:11 as it states the Israelites would be "afflicted" by a nation, which doesn't specify building treasure cities as a form of affliction.
Genesis 15:13: And he said unto Abram, Know of a surety that thy seed shall be a stranger in a land [that is] not theirs, and shall serve them; and they shall afflict them four hundred years;
Contradiction with Exodus 1:12
Contradicts Exodus 1:11 by stating that the more the Israelites were oppressed, the more they multiplied, suggesting oppression had the opposite effect of its intended purpose.
Exodus 1:12: But the more they afflicted them, the more they multiplied and grew. And they were grieved because of the children of Israel. [But...: Heb. And as they afflicted them, so they multiplied, etc]
Paradox #1
Some people point out a potential contradiction with Exodus 1:11 because historical records of the cities mentioned, such as Pithom and Rameses, don't clearly align with the traditional timeline of when the Israelites were thought to be in Egypt. Archaeological evidence for these cities being built at the time the Bible suggests is not strong, leading to questions about historical accuracy.
Paradox #2
The Bible verse suggests that the Israelites built the cities of Pithom and Raamses. Some historians and archaeologists believe there is a lack of evidence linking these specific cities to the time period traditionally associated with the Israelites in Egypt. Additionally, some scholars argue that the archaeological record for these cities does not align with the timeline described in the Bible. This inconsistency creates a debate about the historical accuracy of this account.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in Exodus 1:11 could arise from the imposition of forced labor on the Israelites, which goes against the broader biblical themes of justice, kindness, and treating others fairly. This act of oppression conflicts with later teachings in the Bible that emphasize freedom and equality.