Contradiction with Genesis 1:27
All humans are created in the image of God, suggesting equal value, contrary to the implication of unequal treatment in Exodus 21:21.
Genesis 1:27: So God created man in his [own] image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
Contradiction with Leviticus 19:18
Commands love for one's neighbor as oneself, contradicting the acceptance of a master's power over a servant implied in Exodus 21:21.
Leviticus 19:18: Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:12
The Golden Rule advocates for treating others as one would want to be treated, contrasting with the treatment of a servant in Exodus 21:21.
Matthew 7:12: Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
Contradiction with Matthew 22:39
Jesus' instruction to love your neighbor as yourself conflicts with the acceptance of harm to neighbors (servants) in Exodus 21:21.
Matthew 22:39: On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.
Contradiction with Galatians 3:28
Asserts that there is neither slave nor free in Christ, undermining the distinction made in Exodus 21:21 regarding a servant.
Galatians 3:28: There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
Contradiction with James 2:8-9
Advocates for loving your neighbor as yourself and warns against showing partiality, which contradicts the acceptance of inequality in Exodus 21:21.
James 2:8-9: If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well:
Paradox #1
One possible contradiction with Exodus 21:21 could be the apparent conflict with the broader biblical theme of the value of human life and justice. In many parts of the Bible, all human life is portrayed as having intrinsic value and requiring protection. However, this verse might seem to suggest a lesser value is placed on certain individuals, which could be seen as inconsistent with the overall biblical message of justice and equality before God.
Paradox #2
Exodus 21:21 can be seen as problematic because it seems to suggest that it's acceptable for a slave owner not to face punishment if a slave survives after being beaten. This can be seen as conflicting with the broader biblical teachings of compassion, justice, and the inherent dignity of all people. Some may find it inconsistent with the messages of love and equality taught in other parts of the Bible.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or conflict with Exodus 21:21 could arise from its approach to slavery. In modern times, the concept of slavery is widely condemned, and the ethical acceptance implied in historical texts clashes with contemporary values and human rights standards. This can lead to debates about the morality of such texts and their application or interpretation today.
Paradox #4
The contradiction in Exodus 21:21 could be the acceptance of slave ownership and the idea that a person can be considered someone's property, which contradicts modern understanding of human rights and ethics. It conflicts with contemporary views that all humans have equal rights and should not be owned or controlled by others.
Paradox #5
The contradiction in Exodus 21:21 is that it implies a lesser value on the life and well-being of a servant or slave compared to others. This suggests a conflict with the broader biblical teachings of love, equality, and justice, as it seems to differentiate the treatment of people based on their social status.