Contradiction with Exodus 7:13
While Exodus 9:35 states that Pharaoh's heart was hardened and he did not let the Israelites go, Exodus 7:13 also says his heart was hardened, yet at a different point, showcasing a pattern rather than a singular hardened event.
Exodus 7:13: And he hardened Pharaoh's heart, that he hearkened not unto them; as the LORD had said.
Contradiction with Exodus 8:15
This verse describes Pharaoh hardening his own heart after relief, which contrasts with the notion of his heart being hardened as an ongoing divine act in Exodus 9:35.
Exodus 8:15: But when Pharaoh saw that there was respite, he hardened his heart, and hearkened not unto them; as the LORD had said.
Contradiction with Exodus 9:12
Suggests that the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, which emphasizes divine intervention rather than Pharaoh's own decision-producing a contrast to willful disobedience in other interpretations.
Exodus 9:12: And the LORD hardened the heart of Pharaoh, and he hearkened not unto them; as the LORD had spoken unto Moses.
Contradiction with Romans 9:18
This verse speaks to the idea that God has mercy on whom he wills and hardens whom he wills, providing a broader theological reason that may seem at odds with viewing Pharaoh's actions solely as personal obstinance, as depicted in Exodus 9:35.
Romans 9:18: Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will [have mercy], and whom he will he hardeneth.
Contradiction with Exodus 10:1
Indicates a purpose for the hardening, that signs might be shown before Pharaoh, shifting focus from Pharaoh's agency, unlike suggestions of internal rebellion in Exodus 9:35.
Exodus 10:1: And the LORD said unto Moses, Go in unto Pharaoh: for I have hardened his heart, and the heart of his servants, that I might shew these my signs before him:
Contradiction with Exodus 10:20
Reports that the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart again after yet another plague, reiterating divine influence and suggesting continuity, unlike an isolated instance evident in Exodus 9:35's narration.
Exodus 10:20: But the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, so that he would not let the children of Israel go.
Contradiction with Exodus 11:10
Confirms once more that the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, not a solely human obstinacy, challenging the interpretation which may view Exodus 9:35 as Pharaoh merely refusing on his own accord.
Exodus 11:10: And Moses and Aaron did all these wonders before Pharaoh: and the LORD hardened Pharaoh's heart, so that he would not let the children of Israel go out of his land.
Paradox #1
Exodus 9:35 could be seen as inconsistent with the idea of free will, as Pharaoh's heart being hardened can be interpreted as God's direct intervention, potentially conflicting with the belief that humans have the freedom to make their own choices. This raises questions about divine intervention and human agency.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction with Exodus 9:35 might arise when considering the nature of free will and divine intervention. Some might see a conflict between God's influence over human actions and the concept of humans having the freedom to choose their actions independently. If God hardens a person's heart, it could seem to contradict the idea that people make their own choices. However, interpretations vary, and many believe that divine actions are ultimately aligned with a greater purpose that humans may not fully understand.
Paradox #3
Exodus 9:35 might show a contradiction or inconsistency related to the idea of free will versus divine intervention. It can raise questions about whether the Pharaoh was acting on his own choices or if his actions were controlled by God, which could be seen as conflicting with the notion of personal responsibility and moral accountability.