Contradiction with Psalm 139:21-22
While Exodus 23:4 advocates helping an enemy, Psalm 139:21-22 expresses hatred towards those who hate God, suggesting animosity rather than assistance.
Psalm 139:21-22: Do not I hate them, O LORD, that hate thee? and am not I grieved with those that rise up against thee?
Contradiction with Proverbs 25:21
This verse aligns rather than contradicts, further emphasizing kindness to enemies, showing consistency instead of contradiction.
Proverbs 25:21: If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 7:2
This verse instructs to utterly destroy enemies, contrasting the act of returning a lost item to one’s enemy as instructed in Exodus 23:4.
Deuteronomy 7:2: And when the LORD thy God shall deliver them before thee; thou shalt smite them, [and] utterly destroy them; thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor shew mercy unto them:
Contradiction with Matthew 5:43-44
Similar to Exodus 23:4, this passage encourages love for enemies, showing alignment rather than contradiction.
Matthew 5:43-44: Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
Contradiction with Psalm 18:40
This verse speaks of defeating and destroying enemies, conflicting with the notion of aid provided in Exodus 23:4.
Psalm 18:40: Thou hast also given me the necks of mine enemies; that I might destroy them that hate me.
Paradox #1
Exodus 23:4 instructs people to help their enemies if they find their lost animals. This idea might seem inconsistent with some parts of the Bible that encourage fighting against enemies or treating them with hostility. The contradiction lies in promoting kindness to enemies in one part while allowing or encouraging conflict in other parts.
Paradox #2
Exodus 23:4 might seem like a contradiction because it instructs people to help their enemies in certain situations. The conflict arises if one struggles with the idea of showing kindness to those who have wronged them, as it might feel inconsistent with personal feelings of justice or retribution. It challenges individuals to prioritize compassion over personal grievances.