Contradiction with Exodus 25:18
Exodus 25:18 instructs the making of cherubim, which could be seen as a contradiction because Exodus 20:23 prohibits making gods of silver or gold.
Exodus 25:18: And thou shalt make two cherubims [of] gold, [of] beaten work shalt thou make them, in the two ends of the mercy seat.
Contradiction with Numbers 21:8
Numbers 21:8 records God's instruction to make a fiery serpent, which appears to contradict the command in Exodus 20:23 against crafting images.
Numbers 21:8: And the LORD said unto Moses, Make thee a fiery serpent, and set it upon a pole: and it shall come to pass, that every one that is bitten, when he looketh upon it, shall live.
Contradiction with 1 Kings 7:29
1 Kings 7:29 describes elaborate carvings on Solomon's temple, which could contradict Exodus 20:23's restriction on idols or graven images.
1 Kings 7:29: And on the borders that [were] between the ledges [were] lions, oxen, and cherubims: and upon the ledges [there was] a base above: and beneath the lions and oxen [were] certain additions made of thin work.
Contradiction with 1 Kings 6:23
1 Kings 6:23 describes making a pair of cherubims of olive wood, seemingly conflicting with the prohibition in Exodus 20:23.
1 Kings 6:23: And within the oracle he made two cherubims [of] olive tree, [each] ten cubits high. [olive: or, oily: Heb. trees of oil]
Contradiction with Ezekiel 41:18
Ezekiel 41:18 depicts carved images of cherubim and palm trees in the temple, which could oppose the command given in Exodus 20:23.
Ezekiel 41:18: And [it was] made with cherubims and palm trees, so that a palm tree [was] between a cherub and a cherub; and [every] cherub had two faces;
Paradox #1
Exodus 20:23 may seem in conflict with later instructions about building altars for worship, as some parts of the Bible describe detailed specifications for altars and religious items. This could appear inconsistent with the command to avoid making images. However, many interpret these instructions as specific to preventing idolatry rather than a complete ban on religious items.
Paradox #2
Exodus 20:23 warns against making and worshiping idols. A contradiction might arise when considering other parts of religious practice or texts that involve using physical objects or images in worship or religious veneration, potentially conflicting with the command not to create or worship idols. This inconsistency can be seen in interpretations across different faith traditions on what constitutes an idol.