Contradiction with Exodus 8:18-19
These verses describe how the magicians could not replicate the plague of gnats, showing a difference in power compared to turning a rod into a serpent, which they did replicate.
Exodus 8:18-19: And the magicians did so with their enchantments to bring forth lice, but they could not: so there were lice upon man, and upon beast.
Contradiction with Matthew 12:39
This verse emphasizes that an evil and adulterous generation seeks signs, suggesting skepticism about signs like the transformation of rods into serpents.
Matthew 12:39: But he answered and said unto them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas:
Contradiction with Jeremiah 10:10-11
These verses emphasize the falsehood of idols and crafted deceptions, contrasting with the real power shown in turning rods into serpents.
Jeremiah 10:10-11: But the LORD [is] the true God, he [is] the living God, and an everlasting king: at his wrath the earth shall tremble, and the nations shall not be able to abide his indignation. [true...: Heb. God of truth] [living God: Heb. living Gods] [everlasting...: Heb. king of eternity]
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 18:9-12
These verses condemn practices of enchantment and sorcery, which is similar to what the Egyptian magicians did in performing similar acts as Aaron.
Deuteronomy 18:9-12: When thou art come into the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not learn to do after the abominations of those nations.
Contradiction with Isaiah 44:24-25
Here, God mocks those who rely on sorcery and false signs, contrasting with the belief in the divine action seen in Exodus 7:10.
Isaiah 44:24-25: Thus saith the LORD, thy redeemer, and he that formed thee from the womb, I [am] the LORD that maketh all [things]; that stretcheth forth the heavens alone; that spreadeth abroad the earth by myself;
Paradox #1
The contradiction with this verse might arise when comparing it to other ancient texts or traditions regarding similar events. For instance, in some other ancient accounts or mythologies, miracles or magic can be portrayed differently, leading to differing historical or cultural interpretations of the events described. Additionally, archaeological evidence may not align with the historical timeline or events as described, creating inconsistencies for historians trying to align biblical narratives with physical findings.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction in this verse relates to the transformation of an inanimate object (a staff) into a living creature (a snake). From a scientific perspective, this kind of transformation goes against the laws of biology and physics, which do not support the idea that non-living objects can spontaneously become living organisms.
Paradox #3
Exodus 7:10 involves a miracle where Aaron's staff turns into a snake as a sign from God. A contradiction or conflict might arise if miracles are seen as coercing belief rather than encouraging genuine faith or understanding, which could be viewed as contradictory to the idea of faith being a free, personal choice. Additionally, such acts could raise questions about fairness if they're used to persuade one group over another without clear evidence or opportunity for others to understand or respond freely.