Contradiction with Exodus 20:4
This verse instructs against making any graven image or likeness, which contrasts with the instruction to make cherubims in Exodus 25:18.
Exodus 20:4: Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness [of any thing] that [is] in heaven above, or that [is] in the earth beneath, or that [is] in the water under the earth:
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 4:16
Warns against acting corruptly by making a graven image, potentially opposing the creation of cherubims described in Exodus 25:18.
Deuteronomy 4:16: Lest ye corrupt [yourselves], and make you a graven image, the similitude of any figure, the likeness of male or female,
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 5:8
Commands not to make any graven image, which could contradict the directive to create cherubims in Exodus 25:18.
Deuteronomy 5:8: Thou shalt not make thee [any] graven image, [or] any likeness [of any thing] that [is] in heaven above, or that [is] in the earth beneath, or that [is] in the waters beneath the earth:
Contradiction with Leviticus 26:1
Prohibits making idols or graven images, conflicting with the cherubim construction in Exodus 25:18.
Leviticus 26:1: Ye shall make you no idols nor graven image, neither rear you up a standing image, neither shall ye set up [any] image of stone in your land, to bow down unto it: for I [am] the LORD your God. [standing...: or, pillar] [image of...: or, figured stone: Heb. a stone of picture]
Contradiction with Isaiah 44:9-10
Critiques those who create graven images, seemingly contrary to the making of cherubims in Exodus 25:18.
Isaiah 44:9-10: They that make a graven image [are] all of them vanity; and their delectable things shall not profit; and they [are] their own witnesses; they see not, nor know; that they may be ashamed. [delectable: Heb. desirable]
Paradox #1
The presence of cherubim in Exodus 25:18 could be seen as a contradiction because the Bible also includes commandments against creating graven images or idols, as stated in the Ten Commandments. This could raise questions about why making these specific figures was acceptable.
Paradox #2
Exodus 25:18 talks about making images of cherubim for the Ark of the Covenant. A potential contradiction or inconsistency could be seen with the commandment against making graven images or idols, as stated in Exodus 20:4. While the cherubim are not idols, the creation of these images might appear to conflict with the prohibition of making any carved likenesses.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or conflict might arise from the interpretation that the Bible, in some parts, seems to discourage the creation of images or idols, yet this verse involves making specific images. This could be seen as inconsistent with the broader command against idolatry.