Contradiction with Numbers 9:13
Numbers 9:13 discusses the necessity of keeping the Passover on its appointed day, without explicitly stating not to appear empty-handed, which is emphasized in Exodus 23:15.
Numbers 9:13: But the man that [is] clean, and is not in a journey, and forbeareth to keep the passover, even the same soul shall be cut off from among his people: because he brought not the offering of the LORD in his appointed season, that man shall bear his sin.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 16:16
Deuteronomy 16:16 specifies three times in a year, similar to Exodus 23:15, but extends the command to all males and different festivals without emphasizing the "empty" condition.
Deuteronomy 16:16: Three times in a year shall all thy males appear before the LORD thy God in the place which he shall choose; in the feast of unleavened bread, and in the feast of weeks, and in the feast of tabernacles: and they shall not appear before the LORD empty:
Contradiction with 2 Chronicles 30:18-19
2 Chronicles 30:18-19 details how, during a certain Passover, people were not adequately prepared according to the law but were forgiven, which contrasts the strict empty-handed prohibition of Exodus 23:15.
2 Chronicles 30:18-19: For a multitude of the people, [even] many of Ephraim, and Manasseh, Issachar, and Zebulun, had not cleansed themselves, yet did they eat the passover otherwise than it was written. But Hezekiah prayed for them, saying, The good LORD pardon every one
Paradox #1
Exodus 23:15 refers to observing a festival and not appearing empty-handed. A potential contradiction might arise when considering teachings about God's grace and sacrifice, which emphasize that human offerings cannot earn favor with God. The requirement for an offering could seem at odds with the idea of unconditional divine grace. However, this can also be understood as part of a cultural and historical context specific to the covenant with Israel, not necessarily creating a contradiction.
Paradox #2
Some might see a contradiction in the idea that the verse requires specific religious observance or offerings, which can be at odds with the broader concept of worship being a personal and voluntary act of faith. This could conflict with the idea of genuine devotion if it feels forced or obligatory.