Contradictions and Paradoxes in Exodus 21:12

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Exodus 21:12 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Exodus 21:12. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Moses, if someone hurts another person on purpose and that person dies, the one who did the hurting must also be punished by losing their life. This rule was given to help keep people safe and teach that hurting others is very wrong.

Exodus 21:12: He that smiteth a man, so that he die, shall be surely put to death.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:39

Exodus 21:12 advocates for punishment for injury ("he shall be surely put to death"), while Matthew 5:39 advises not to resist an evil person and to turn the other cheek instead.

Matthew 5:39: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

Contradiction with Romans 12:19

Exodus 21:12 calls for direct retribution ("he shall be surely put to death"), whereas Romans 12:19 instructs to leave vengeance to God.

Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

Exodus 21:12 implies retribution for harm done, but Matthew 5:44 advises love for enemies and prayer for persecutors.

Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

Contradiction with Luke 6:27

Exodus 21:12 supports retribution for violent acts, whereas Luke 6:27 encourages doing good to those who hate you.

Luke 6:27: But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,

Paradox #1

Exodus 21:12 discusses consequences for causing harm to others. A potential contradiction arises when comparing this with teachings of forgiveness and mercy found in the New Testament, such as Jesus' teachings on turning the other cheek and loving enemies. This might seem inconsistent with the Old Testament's more punitive approach.

Paradox #2

The potential doctrinal conflict with Exodus 21:12 could arise when comparing it with teachings about forgiveness and mercy found in the New Testament, particularly in the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized turning the other cheek and loving enemies. This contrast can lead to discussions about how justice and mercy are balanced in biblical teachings.

Paradox #3

The potential contradiction or inconsistency with "Exodus 21:12" may relate to differing interpretations of justice and punishment in ancient societies. In some cultures, the idea of proportional justice or more merciful approaches to crime punishment could conflict with the strictness described. The verse's emphasis on severe penalties might contrast with more rehabilitative or restorative justice practices found in different historical or cultural contexts.

Paradox #4

The potential scientific inconsistency with Exodus 21:12 could relate to the concept of justice and punishment. Modern legal systems and ethical standards might prioritize rehabilitation and restorative justice over the strict retributive justice reflected in the ancient text. Additionally, the verse's approach does not align with contemporary understandings of human rights and the complexities of human behavior and mental health that are considered today in legal contexts.

Paradox #5

The contradiction could be that the verse advocates for a strict, retributive form of justice, which can seem at odds with other parts of the Bible that emphasize forgiveness, mercy, and turning the other cheek, such as teachings found in the New Testament. This can create tension between the ideas of justice and mercy.

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