Contradiction with Numbers 34:2-12
Defines the boundaries of the land that differ from those described in Exodus 23:31, indicating a more limited territory.
Numbers 34:2-12: Command the children of Israel, and say unto them, When ye come into the land of Canaan; (this [is] the land that shall fall unto you for an inheritance, [even] the land of Canaan with the coasts thereof:)
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 11:24
Provides a different description of the borders, suggesting a larger scope than the restricted boundaries in Exodus 23:31.
Deuteronomy 11:24: Every place whereon the soles of your feet shall tread shall be yours: from the wilderness and Lebanon, from the river, the river Euphrates, even unto the uttermost sea shall your coast be.
Contradiction with Joshua 1:4
Describes territory reaching the great Euphrates River, which exceeds the boundaries given in Exodus 23:31.
Joshua 1:4: From the wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and unto the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your coast.
Contradiction with 1 Kings 4:21
Describes Solomon's dominion over kingdoms from the Euphrates to the border of Egypt, a broader area compared to Exodus 23:31.
1 Kings 4:21: And Solomon reigned over all kingdoms from the river unto the land of the Philistines, and unto the border of Egypt: they brought presents, and served Solomon all the days of his life.
Contradiction with Psalm 72:8
Mentions dominion from sea to sea and from the river to the ends of the earth, implying extent beyond the borders of Exodus 23:31.
Psalm 72:8: He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth.
Contradiction with Ezekiel 47:13-20
Outlines future boundaries of Israel that differ considerably from those in Exodus 23:31.
Ezekiel 47:13-20: Thus saith the Lord GOD; This [shall be] the border, whereby ye shall inherit the land according to the twelve tribes of Israel: Joseph [shall have two] portions.
Paradox #1
One potential contradiction related to this verse is the description of the boundaries of the Promised Land as extending from the Red Sea to the Euphrates River. Historically, these borders were never fully achieved by the Israelites, even during the peak of King Solomon's reign. This inconsistency between the biblical description and historical or archaeological evidence might raise questions about the accuracy or interpretation of the text.
Paradox #2
The moral conflict in Exodus 23:31 might arise from the idea of conquering lands and displacing existing inhabitants, which can be seen as inconsistent with modern values of peace, coexistence, and respect for all peoples and cultures.