Contradictions and Paradoxes in Exodus 22:1

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Exodus 22:1 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Exodus 22:1. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Moses, if someone takes an animal like an ox or sheep and sells it or kills it, they must give back even more animals than they took. This teaches that stealing is wrong, and people have to make up for it by giving back more than what they stole.

Exodus 22:1: If a man shall steal an ox, or a sheep, and kill it, or sell it; he shall restore five oxen for an ox, and four sheep for a sheep. [or a sheep: or, or a goat]

Contradiction with Matthew 5:39

Instructs to not resist an evil person, contrasting with the restitution principle in Exodus 22:1.

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

Advises to leave vengeance to God, which contradicts the direct restitution commanded in Exodus 22:1.

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

Encourages offering more to the wrongdoer instead of seeking restitution, unlike in Exodus 22:1.

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.

Contradiction with Proverbs 20:22

Advises not to say "I will recompense evil," which is contrary to the restitution principle in Exodus 22:1.

Proverbs 20:22: Say not thou, I will recompense evil; [but] wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.

Contradiction with 1 Peter 3:9

Emphasizes not returning evil for evil, differing from the repayment instruction in Exodus 22:1.

1 Peter 3:9: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.

Contradiction with Colossians 3:13

Encourages forgiving grievances, which contrasts with seeking restitution in Exodus 22:1.

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]

Paradox #1

Exodus 22:1 might seem inconsistent with other parts of the Bible because it prescribes specific penalties for theft, which contrasts with the New Testament teachings of forgiveness and turning the other cheek, as seen in Jesus' sermons. The Old Testament law focuses more on justice and restitution, while the New Testament often emphasizes grace and mercy.

Paradox #2

Exodus 22:1 talks about paying back or compensating more than what was stolen. A moral conflict might arise when considering modern ideas of justice, which often focus on rehabilitation rather than excessive punishment or retribution. Some may find it inconsistent with the idea of fairness to demand such high compensation compared to the original loss.

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