Contradictions and Paradoxes in Exodus 20:19

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Exodus 20:19 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Exodus 20:19. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Moses, the people were scared to hear God's voice directly because they thought it might be too powerful and could hurt them. So, they asked Moses to talk to God for them and then tell them what God said.

Exodus 20:19: And they said unto Moses, Speak thou with us, and we will hear: but let not God speak with us, lest we die.

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 5:24

In Deuteronomy 5:24, the people acknowledge hearing God's voice out of the fire and express they can survive this experience, contrasting Exodus 20:19, where they fear death from hearing God's voice.

Deuteronomy 5:24: And ye said, Behold, the LORD our God hath shewed us his glory and his greatness, and we have heard his voice out of the midst of the fire: we have seen this day that God doth talk with man, and he liveth.

Contradiction with Exodus 24:1

In Exodus 24:1, God invites Moses and others to come up the mountain to Him, suggesting a more direct encounter, contrary to Exodus 20:19, where the people refuse direct communication with God.

Exodus 24:1: And he said unto Moses, Come up unto the LORD, thou, and Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel; and worship ye afar off.

Contradiction with Exodus 33:11

In Exodus 33:11, it states that God spoke to Moses face to face as a man speaks to his friend, which contrasts with the people's fear to directly hear from God in Exodus 20:19.

Exodus 33:11: And the LORD spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend. And he turned again into the camp: but his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, departed not out of the tabernacle.

Contradiction with Numbers 12:8

In Numbers 12:8, God explains He speaks to Moses mouth to mouth, clearly and not in riddles, which is in contrast to the people's expressed fear of hearing God's voice in Exodus 20:19.

Numbers 12:8: With him will I speak mouth to mouth, even apparently, and not in dark speeches; and the similitude of the LORD shall he behold: wherefore then were ye not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 34:10

Deuteronomy 34:10 describes the unparalleled direct contact Moses had with God, which contrasts with people's fear in Exodus 20:19 of hearing God directly.

Deuteronomy 34:10: And there arose not a prophet since in Israel like unto Moses, whom the LORD knew face to face,
Disclaimer: The content provided at PolarBible.com is for educational purposes only. Readers have the full right to agree or disagree with the interpretations and conclusions presented. We take no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken based on the information shared as Polar Verses.