Contradiction with Jeremiah 30:11
While Ezekiel 16:53 implies restoration, Jeremiah 30:11 suggests complete destruction of the nations but not of Israel, indicating different fates for nations that have opposed Israel.
Jeremiah 30:11: For I [am] with thee, saith the LORD, to save thee: though I make a full end of all nations whither I have scattered thee, yet will I not make a full end of thee: but I will correct thee in measure, and will not leave thee altogether unpunished.
Contradiction with Isaiah 13:19-20
Ezekiel 16:53 mentions the potential restoration, whereas Isaiah 13:19-20 describes Babylon as never being inhabited or lived in, thus opposing the notion of restoration.
Isaiah 13:19-20: And Babylon, the glory of kingdoms, the beauty of the Chaldees' excellency, shall be as when God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah. [as...: Heb. as the overthrowing]
Contradiction with Nahum 1:9
Ezekiel 16:53 implies future restoration, but Nahum 1:9 states that affliction or destruction of Nineveh will not rise again, opposing any idea of restoration for certain places.
Nahum 1:9: What do ye imagine against the LORD? he will make an utter end: affliction shall not rise up the second time.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 51:62-64
This verse speaks of Babylon's permanent destruction with no possibility of recovery, contradicting the restoration theme in Ezekiel 16:53.
Jeremiah 51:62-64: Then shalt thou say, O LORD, thou hast spoken against this place, to cut it off, that none shall remain in it, neither man nor beast, but that it shall be desolate for ever. [desolate: Heb. desolations]
Paradox #1
Ezekiel 16:53 is about God promising to restore the fortunes of certain groups, including Sodom and Samaria. A contradiction might arise from the idea of restoring Sodom, a city often held as a symbol of extreme sin and rejection by God. The contradiction lies in the fact that, repeatedly in scripture, Sodom is portrayed as having been judged and destroyed for its wickedness, leading some to question how or why restoration for such a city would be consistent with other biblical teachings on judgment and sin.
Paradox #2
Ezekiel 16:53 touches on concepts of restoration, but it can be seen as contradictory because it suggests that groups traditionally viewed negatively, like Sodom, will be restored. This may seem inconsistent with other parts of the Bible where these groups face permanent judgment without redemption.
Paradox #3
This verse suggests restoration and mercy towards those who have sinned, which might seem inconsistent with other parts of the Bible that emphasize punishment and judgment for wrongdoing. This could create a conflict between the ideas of justice and mercy.