Contradiction with Exodus 33:20
In Exodus 40:38, God’s presence in the cloud is visible, whereas Exodus 33:20 states no one can see God and live, suggesting an apparent contradiction in the visibility of God.
Exodus 33:20: And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live.
Contradiction with Numbers 11:31
Exodus 40:38 describes the cloud's consistent presence over the tabernacle, while Numbers 11:31 mentions the wind from the Lord bringing quails, demonstrating God's presence and action without a cloud.
Numbers 11:31: And there went forth a wind from the LORD, and brought quails from the sea, and let [them] fall by the camp, as it were a day's journey on this side, and as it were a day's journey on the other side, round about the camp, and as it were two cubits [high] upon the face of the earth. [as it were a day's...: Heb. as it were the way of a day]
Contradiction with 1 Kings 19:11-12
In contrast to Exodus 40:38’s prominent physical manifestation of God’s presence (cloud), 1 Kings 19:11-12 describes God as being found in a "still small voice," highlighting God’s presence in subtlety rather than a visible manifestation.
1 Kings 19:11-12: And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the LORD. And, behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the LORD; [but] the LORD [was] not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; [but] the LORD [was] not in the earthquake:
Contradiction with John 4:24
Exodus 40:38 describes a visible sign of God’s presence, whereas John 4:24 asserts God is a Spirit and should be worshipped in spirit and truth, not through physical manifestations.
John 4:24: God [is] a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship [him] in spirit and in truth.
Paradox #1
Exodus 40:38 might present a contradiction when considering the duration and timing of the events described in the broader narrative. It suggests a continuous divine presence with the Israelites during their journey, which could seem inconsistent when compared to other parts of the Bible that describe instances where God's presence appears more sporadic or conditional upon the people's faithfulness. Discrepancies in timelines and events between different books of the Bible may lead to perceived contradictions.