Contradiction with Exodus 20:4-5
These verses command not to make graven images or idols, contradicting the idea of breaking down others' religious symbols as you must also not create any.
Exodus 20:4-5: 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 7:5
This verse supports the action in Exodus 34:13 instead of contradicting it, showing a similar command to destroy altars and images.
Deuteronomy 7:5: But thus shall ye deal with them; ye shall destroy their altars, and break down their images, and cut down their groves, and burn their graven images with fire. [their images: Heb. their statues, or, pillars]
Contradiction with 2 Kings 18:4
Instead of contradicting, it reinforces the action of breaking down religious symbols, similar to Exodus 34:13.
2 Kings 18:4: He removed the high places, and brake the images, and cut down the groves, and brake in pieces the brasen serpent that Moses had made: for unto those days the children of Israel did burn incense to it: and he called it Nehushtan. [images: Heb. statues] [Nehushtan: that is, A piece of brass]
Contradiction with Isaiah 2:18
Suggests that idols will be completely abolished rather than actively destroyed by people.
Isaiah 2:18: And the idols he shall utterly abolish. [he...: or, shall utterly pass away]
Contradiction with Acts 17:29
Implies that serving the divine with artifacts is wrong, aligning with the prohibition of divine physical representations, similar to prohibiting other altars in Exodus 34:13.
Acts 17:29: Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device.
Contradiction with Romans 14:5
Contradicts the forceful destruction of religious symbols by promoting individual conviction and understanding over others' beliefs and practices.
Romans 14:5: One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day [alike]. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. [fully persuaded: or, fully assured]
Paradox #1
Exodus 34:13 instructs the destruction of altars, pillars, and sacred poles of other religions. A doctrinal conflict might arise when comparing this with messages of tolerance and love found in the New Testament, like loving one's neighbor and living peacefully with others. This could seem inconsistent with the message of acceptance and coexistence.
Paradox #2
The verse instructs the Israelites to destroy religious symbols and places of worship of other peoples, which could historically contradict the idea of respecting other cultures and religions. This kind of directive might also align with accounts of the Israelites interacting or forming alliances with other groups, leading to inconsistencies in how these relationships are portrayed in different parts of historical or biblical narratives.
Paradox #3
Exodus 34:13 may present a contradiction or conflict when considering the overall biblical message of tolerance and loving one's neighbor. The verse calls for the destruction of altars and sacred symbols of other religions, which can be seen as conflicting with modern values of religious freedom and coexistence. This inconsistency highlights the tension between following specific religious commands and promoting a more inclusive, peaceful society.