Contradiction with Proverbs 17:13
This verse suggests repaying evil with good, contradicting the severe punishment for cursing a parent as stated in Exodus 21:17.
Proverbs 17:13: Whoso rewardeth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
This verse teaches to bless those who curse you, contradicting the punishment for cursing a parent specified in Exodus 21:17.
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 Ephesians 6:4
This verse advises fathers not to provoke their children, which can indirectly contrast with the implication of harsh punishment in Exodus 21:17.
Ephesians 6:4: And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
Contradiction with Colossians 3:13
This verse encourages forgiveness and bearing with one another, contradicting the fatal consequence for cursing a parent in Exodus 21:17.
Colossians 3:13: Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also [do] ye. [quarrel: or, complaint]
Contradiction with Matthew 15:4-6
Although this passage reiterates the commandment to honor parents, it also suggests that tradition should not override the principle of mercy, posing a contradiction to Exodus 21:17.
Matthew 15:4-6: For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.
Paradox #1
Exodus 21:17 could be seen as conflicting with the teachings of forgiveness and mercy found in the New Testament. While Exodus prescribes a severe punishment for cursing parents, the New Testament emphasizes forgiveness, love, and turning the other cheek, as taught by Jesus. This presents a potential inconsistency between the justice and retribution seen in the Old Testament and the mercy and forgiveness encouraged in the New Testament.
Paradox #2
Exodus 21:17 mentions a severe punishment for cursing one's parents. A possible doctrinal inconsistency arises when comparing this with the teachings of forgiveness and love found in the New Testament, such as Jesus advocating for forgiveness and compassion in verses like Matthew 5:44, where he instructs to love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. This contrast could be seen as inconsistent with the harsher Old Testament law.
Paradox #3
Some people see a contradiction when comparing this verse with teachings of forgiveness and compassion found in other parts of the Bible, like those from Jesus in the New Testament. The Old Testament laws can seem harsh and less forgiving, which may conflict with the idea of mercy and love emphasized later.
Paradox #4
Exodus 21:17 talks about punishing a child with death for cursing their parents. A contradiction here might be the conflict with modern psychology and child development understanding, which suggests that such punishment is extreme and harmful to a child's mental and emotional well-being.
Paradox #5
Some people might see a conflict with the teaching to honor and forgive others, as this verse prescribes a very harsh punishment for speaking against parents, which seems inconsistent with the values of mercy and forgiveness found in other parts of religious teachings.