Contradiction with Genesis 17:10
Genesis 17:10 commands circumcision as a covenant with God, whereas Exodus 4:26 references a near-deadly incident due to delayed circumcision.
Genesis 17:10: This [is] my covenant, which ye shall keep, between me and you and thy seed after thee; Every man child among you shall be circumcised.
Contradiction with Leviticus 12:3
Leviticus 12:3 commands that circumcision be done on the eighth day, while Exodus 4:26 implies Moses' son was not circumcised timely, leading to God's anger.
Leviticus 12:3: And in the eighth day the flesh of his foreskin shall be circumcised.
Contradiction with 1 Samuel 15:22
1 Samuel 15:22 emphasizes obedience to God over ritual acts, while Exodus 4:26 shows the act of circumcision halting divine punishment, implying ritual importance.
1 Samuel 15:22: And Samuel said, Hath the LORD [as great] delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey [is] better than sacrifice, [and] to hearken than the fat of rams.
Contradiction with Galatians 5:6
Galatians 5:6 states that faith, not circumcision, is significant, contradicting Exodus 4:26 where circumcision seems critical for divine favor.
Galatians 5:6: For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.
Contradiction with Romans 2:29
Romans 2:29 emphasizes spiritual over physical circumcision, contrasting with the physical act in Exodus 4:26 that appeased God's wrath.
Romans 2:29: But he [is] a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision [is that] of the heart, in the spirit, [and] not in the letter; whose praise [is] not of men, but of God.
Paradox #1
Exodus 4:26 involves a mysterious and sudden event where the life of a key biblical figure is threatened and resolved through an action that isn't immediately explained well in the context. This can lead to confusion or perceived inconsistency regarding why such drastic measures were necessary, the nature of the covenant being referenced, and its connection to the surrounding narrative.
Paradox #2
Exodus 4:26 might be seen as confusing because it involves a sudden and intense situation where Zipporah, Moses' wife, acts to protect Moses by performing a circumcision. The contradiction or conflict comes from unclear reasons for God's anger toward Moses and why the circumcision was necessary at that moment. The passage doesn't clearly explain these motivations, leading to potential confusion or inconsistency in understanding God's actions and requirements.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in Exodus 4:26 might arise from the surprising severity and abruptness of God's reaction, which seems inconsistent with His normally patient and forgiving nature. It may challenge beliefs about divine justice and mercy, leading to questions about why such a harsh action was deemed necessary.