Contradictions and Paradoxes in Exodus 6:12

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Exodus 6:12 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Exodus 6:12. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Moses, he was worried because even his own people, the Israelites, didn't listen to him, so he wondered how Pharaoh would listen to him if he didn’t think he was a good speaker. Moses felt nervous and unsure about talking to powerful people like Pharaoh.

Exodus 6:12: And Moses spake before the LORD, saying, Behold, the children of Israel have not hearkened unto me; how then shall Pharaoh hear me, who [am] of uncircumcised lips?

Contradiction with Exodus 4:10

Moses previously expressed his doubts about his speaking abilities, which is similar but highlights doubting a different aspect of prophetic mission.

Exodus 4:10: And Moses said unto the LORD, O my Lord, I [am] not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I [am] slow of speech, and of a slow tongue. [eloquent: Heb. a man of words] [heretofore: Heb. since yesterday, nor since the third day]

Contradiction with Exodus 3:11

Contradicts by showing Moses initially doubting his capability to confront Pharaoh, similar to his doubt about being heard by the Israelites in Exodus 6:12.

Exodus 3:11: And Moses said unto God, Who [am] I, that I should go unto Pharaoh, and that I should bring forth the children of Israel out of Egypt?

Contradiction with Jeremiah 1:6

Jeremiah expresses inability to speak well as a prophet, paralleling Moses' expression of doubt, which is a recurring theme among prophets rather than a contradiction.

Jeremiah 1:6: Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! behold, I cannot speak: for I [am] a child.

Contradiction with Jonah 1:2-3

Jonah's outright refusal to deliver God's message contrasts with Moses' concern about being heard, showing different reactions to God’s command.

Jonah 1:2-3: Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and cry against it; for their wickedness is come up before me.

Contradiction with Isaiah 6:5

Isaiah feels unworthy and unclean for the prophetic mission, contrasting Moses' doubt about being heard with a feeling of personal inadequacy.

Isaiah 6:5: Then said I, Woe [is] me! for I am undone; because I [am] a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts. [undone: Heb. cut off]

Paradox #1

Exodus 6:12 might seem to have a contradiction if compared with earlier chapters where Moses first expresses doubt about his speaking abilities. The inconsistency could appear when Moses repeatedly doubts his ability to speak to Pharaoh because of his speech issues, yet later on takes action and communicates God's messages effectively. The conflict arises in understanding how Moses, despite his concerns, is consistently chosen and empowered by God to lead and speak. This can also relate to the theme of human doubt versus divine empowerment.

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