Contradiction with Deuteronomy 7:22
This verse similarly suggests a gradual process of displacing nations, aligning with Exodus 23:29 rather than contradicting it.
Deuteronomy 7:22: And the LORD thy God will put out those nations before thee by little and little: thou mayest not consume them at once, lest the beasts of the field increase upon thee. [put...: Heb. pluck off]
Contradiction with Joshua 11:23
This verse states that Joshua took the whole land at once, contradicting the gradual process described in Exodus 23:29.
Joshua 11:23: So Joshua took the whole land, according to all that the LORD said unto Moses; and Joshua gave it for an inheritance unto Israel according to their divisions by their tribes. And the land rested from war.
Contradiction with Joshua 21:43-44
It indicates that the Israelites received all the land and rest from enemies, seemingly at once, which contradicts the gradual conquest mentioned in Exodus 23:29.
Joshua 21:43-44: And the LORD gave unto Israel all the land which he sware to give unto their fathers; and they possessed it, and dwelt therein.
Contradiction with Judges 2:23
This verse suggests that God left some nations to test Israel, indicating a lack of complete conquest, which may seem contradictory but aligns with the gradual process.
Judges 2:23: Therefore the LORD left those nations, without driving them out hastily; neither delivered he them into the hand of Joshua. [left: or, suffered]
Paradox #1
Exodus 23:29 might seem to contradict other passages that suggest taking the land immediately. Some texts suggest swift action, while this verse advises a gradual process. This could appear inconsistent regarding the timing and manner of taking possession.
Paradox #2
Exodus 23:29 talks about God not driving out the inhabitants of the land too quickly to prevent the land from becoming desolate. A possible inconsistency or conflict is that in other parts of the Bible, such as Joshua, it seems to suggest that the inhabitants were driven out quickly. This difference in timelines could be seen as contradictory.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in this verse could be the tension between divine plans and human suffering. On one hand, it suggests strategic purpose or wisdom behind a gradual process, but on the other hand, it might be seen as prolonging hardship or struggle for people. This presents a conflict between what is portrayed as necessary divine patience and the immediate alleviation of human difficulties.