Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Exodus 21:16 prescribes punishment for kidnapping, whereas Matthew 5:44 advises to love and forgive enemies, presenting a contradiction between retribution and forgiveness.
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 Romans 12:19
Exodus 21:16 mandates punishment, while Romans 12:19 urges individuals not to seek vengeance, leaving room for a contradiction regarding retribution.
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 Luke 6:29
While Exodus 21:16 calls for justice and punishment, Luke 6:29 advocates for turning the other cheek, offering a stance of non-retaliation that contrasts with punitive measures.
Luke 6:29: And unto him that smiteth thee on the [one] cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid not [to take thy] coat also.
Paradox #1
Exodus 21:16 discusses the punishment for kidnapping, stating that someone who kidnaps another person should be put to death. A potential contradiction or inconsistency may arise when comparing this verse with passages that advocate forgiveness or turning the other cheek, such as teachings in the New Testament. This could lead to questions about how justice and mercy are balanced in biblical teachings.
Paradox #2
Exodus 21:16 could be seen as conflicting with the concept of forgiveness or redemption found in the New Testament. In the Old Testament, this verse has a strict consequence, whereas the New Testament often focuses on forgiveness and second chances. This difference might be viewed as inconsistent in the approach to justice and mercy.
Paradox #3
One possible contradiction is that Exodus 21:16, which condemns kidnapping, conflicts with other parts of the Bible where slavery is regulated but not outright condemned. This might seem inconsistent to some because it allows buying and selling of people in certain contexts, while still punishing the act of kidnapping someone to sell them.
Paradox #4
The contradiction lies in the moral and ethical standards regarding slavery. Modern science, particularly social sciences and human rights, strongly opposes slavery as it is considered a violation of fundamental human rights. This conflicts with the acceptance or regulation of slavery in historical contexts, including certain biblical texts.
Paradox #5
Exodus 21:16 talks about the punishment for kidnapping. The contradiction or conflict may arise when comparing this with other passages that imply different values on human freedom or punishment methods. For instance, some people might find it inconsistent with passages advocating for forgiveness or oppose harsh penalties. This can lead to discussions on how justice and mercy are balanced in biblical texts.