Contradictions and Paradoxes in Exodus 33:16

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Exodus 33:16 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Exodus 33:16. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Moses, this verse means that God's people are special because God stays with them. They are different from everyone else because God is their helper and friend.

Exodus 33:16: For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? [is it] not in that thou goest with us? so shall we be separated, I and thy people, from all the people that [are] upon the face of the earth.

Contradiction with Numbers 23:9

Numbers 23:9 states that Israel "shall not be reckoned among the nations," which contradicts Exodus 33:16, where distinction from other nations is desired.

Numbers 23:9: For from the top of the rocks I see him, and from the hills I behold him: lo, the people shall dwell alone, and shall not be reckoned among the nations.

Contradiction with Psalm 106:35

Psalm 106:35 mentions the Israelites mingling with other nations, contradicting the separation and distinction desired in Exodus 33:16.

Psalm 106:35: But were mingled among the heathen, and learned their works.

Contradiction with John 17:15

John 17:15 speaks about being kept from evil, not separation from the world, which contrasts with Exodus 33:16's emphasis on distinctness from other nations.

John 17:15: I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.

Paradox #1

Exodus 33:16 suggests that God’s presence with the Israelites is what sets them apart from other nations. A possible contradiction here could be the notion of exclusivity, where God favors one group over others. This might conflict with ideas of fairness or equality, where all people are valued equally.

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