Contradiction with Exodus 20:3
This verse commands that no other gods be placed before God, which contradicts Exodus 34:17 that focuses specifically on not making molten gods, suggesting more specificity.
Exodus 20:3: Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
Contradiction with Exodus 20:23
This verse speaks against making gods of silver or gold, while Exodus 34:17 specifically states molten gods, introducing a different aspect of idol creation.
Exodus 20:23: Ye shall not make with me gods of silver, neither shall ye make unto you gods of gold.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 16:22
It forbids the setting up of a pillar, which Moses had set as a practice for worship alongside molten gods.
Deuteronomy 16:22: Neither shalt thou set thee up [any] image; which the LORD thy God hateth. [image: or, statue, or, pillar]
Contradiction with Isaiah 42:8
This verse speaks to God's intolerance for graven images, showing a broader context of idolatry beyond specifically molten images mentioned in Exodus 34:17.
Isaiah 42:8: I [am] the LORD: that [is] my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.
Contradiction with Acts 17:29
This verse warns against thinking of God in material terms, suggesting a more philosophical contradiction with the physical idols mentioned in Exodus 34:17.
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.
Paradox #1
Exodus 34:17 talks about not making idols. A potential contradiction or inconsistency could be seen when comparing it to other Bible passages where idols or images appear to be used in worship or religious practice, like in certain descriptions of the Tabernacle or Temple. This could seem inconsistent as creating representations in these contexts is described, suggesting varying interpretations over the acceptability of certain images or objects in worship.