Contradiction with Leviticus 18:3
This verse instructs the Israelites not to follow the practices of Egypt and Canaan, contradicting Ezekiel 16:26's depiction of promiscuous behavior associated with Egypt.
Leviticus 18:3: After the doings of the land of Egypt, wherein ye dwelt, shall ye not do: and after the doings of the land of Canaan, whither I bring you, shall ye not do: neither shall ye walk in their ordinances.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 6:18
This verse advises to flee from sexual immorality, contradicting the depiction in Ezekiel 16:26 of engaging in harlotry.
1 Corinthians 6:18: Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.
Contradiction with Hebrews 13:4
This verse upholds marriage as honorable and warns against adultery, contrary to the behavior described in Ezekiel 16:26.
Hebrews 13:4: Marriage [is] honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
Contradiction with 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5
These verses call for sanctification and avoiding sexual immorality, opposing the actions described in Ezekiel 16:26.
1 Thessalonians 4:3-5: For this is the will of God, [even] your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:
Contradiction with James 4:4
This verse warns against friendship with the world and spiritual adultery, contrasting with the harlotry described in Ezekiel 16:26.
James 4:4: Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.
Paradox #1
Ezekiel 16:26 involves a metaphorical language that can raise questions about the consistency of God's portrayal. In other parts of the Bible, God is often depicted as loving, forgiving, and patient. However, in this verse, God's message through Ezekiel uses harsh language to describe the actions of Israel, which might seem inconsistent with the more compassionate depictions of God. This contrast could be confusing for some readers about God's character.
Paradox #2
Ezekiel 16:26 might be seen as inconsistent with the Bible's broader teachings on love and kindness to all nations and people. While the verse uses strong imagery to critique certain behaviors, other parts of the Bible promote forgiveness, grace, and reaching out to others without prejudice. This could be seen as a contrast between judgment and acceptance.
Paradox #3
One potential issue with Ezekiel 16:26 is the historical context regarding the relationships between Israelites and neighboring nations. The verse criticizes certain behaviors, but critics might point out inconsistencies with other biblical accounts that detail alliances or interactions that aren't always negative. This can create a perception of conflict or contradiction when assessing the consistency of the text's historical narrative.
Paradox #4
This verse expresses strong judgment against certain actions or behaviors. A potential contradiction or inconsistency might arise from the harsh language and tone, which could conflict with the broader biblical themes of love, compassion, and forgiveness. Some might see this as conflicting with the idea of treating all people with kindness and understanding, regardless of their actions.