Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:32
Ezekiel 18:32 emphasizes that God takes no pleasure in the death of anyone, whereas Ezekiel 23:20 describes indulging in lewd behavior, suggesting a differing view on actions leading to life or death.
Ezekiel 18:32: For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord GOD: wherefore turn [yourselves], and live ye. [yourselves: or, others]
Contradiction with Philippians 4:8
Philippians 4:8 encourages thinking on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report, which stands in contrast to the explicit and lustful imagery in Ezekiel 23:20.
Philippians 4:8: Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things [are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things. [honest: or, venerable]
Contradiction with Matthew 5:8
Matthew 5:8 speaks about the blessedness of the pure in heart, contradicting the impurity and lust outlined in Ezekiel 23:20.
Matthew 5:8: Blessed [are] the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
Contradiction with Galatians 5:16
Galatians 5:16 advises walking in the Spirit to avoid fulfilling the lust of the flesh, in direct contradiction with the fleshly lust depicted in Ezekiel 23:20.
Galatians 5:16: [This] I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. [ye...: or, fulfil not]
Contradiction with Ephesians 5:3
Ephesians 5:3 cautions against fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, which contrasts with the behaviors described in Ezekiel 23:20.
Ephesians 5:3: But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;
Paradox #1
Ezekiel 23:20 contains graphic language that describes infidelity and lust in a metaphorical way. Some readers might find it inconsistent with the notion of the Bible as a purely sacred and moral text. It could be seen as conflicting with the expectation that the Bible solely contains uplifting or spiritually focused content. This verse uses an explicit metaphor to convey a message about Israel's unfaithfulness to God, which might seem at odds with more gentle or straightforward moral teachings elsewhere in the Bible.
Paradox #2
Some people see a conflict in that this verse uses graphic imagery to convey a moral point, which might seem at odds with other parts of the Bible that focus on purity and modesty in language. Others might see it as inconsistent with how God's messages are usually delivered. However, it's often understood as intentionally provocative to emphasize the seriousness of the message being communicated.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or conflict in this verse could arise from its explicit and graphic language, which might seem inconsistent with the overall message of modesty and moral conduct often promoted in religious texts. It might be puzzling for readers to find such vivid descriptions in a sacred text that also advocates purity and restraint.