Contradiction with Ezekiel 16:8
This verse depicts God's commitment and covenant, showing a bond of love and protection, contrasting it with the judgment and negative portrayal of relationships in Ezekiel 23:4.
Ezekiel 16:8: Now when I passed by thee, and looked upon thee, behold, thy time [was] the time of love; and I spread my skirt over thee, and covered thy nakedness: yea, I sware unto thee, and entered into a covenant with thee, saith the Lord GOD, and thou becamest mine.
Contradiction with Hosea 2:19-20
These verses promise a future betrothal in righteousness and faithfulness, offering hope and a loving relationship, unlike the negative depiction of relationships in Ezekiel 23:4.
Hosea 2:19-20: And I will betroth thee unto me for ever; yea, I will betroth thee unto me in righteousness, and in judgment, and in lovingkindness, and in mercies.
Contradiction with Isaiah 54:5
This describes God as a faithful husband, emphasizing a positive and protective relationship, which contradicts Ezekiel 23:4's depiction of corruption.
Isaiah 54:5: For thy Maker [is] thine husband; the LORD of hosts [is] his name; and thy Redeemer the Holy One of Israel; The God of the whole earth shall he be called. [Maker: Heb. Makers]
Contradiction with Jeremiah 3:14
God calls for a return to Him as a husband to the backsliding children, showing willingness to restore, which contrasts with the relentless judgment shown in Ezekiel 23:4.
Jeremiah 3:14: Turn, O backsliding children, saith the LORD; for I am married unto you: and I will take you one of a city, and two of a family, and I will bring you to Zion:
Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 11:2
Expresses a godly jealousy and pure intention in the spiritual relationship, opposing the negative characterizations in Ezekiel 23:4.
2 Corinthians 11:2: For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present [you as] a chaste virgin to Christ.
Contradiction with Revelation 19:7-8
Describes the marriage of the Lamb and His bride, portraying a pure and holy union, contrary to the adulterous depictions in Ezekiel 23:4.
Revelation 19:7-8: Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.
Paradox #1
Ezekiel 23:4 involves symbolic names for two cities that represent different places in Israel. The historical inconsistency arises from the way the cities are personified as sisters, which might not align with the actual historical, political, or familial relationships between these locations. The metaphorical use of these names could lead to misunderstandings if taken as a literal historical account.
Paradox #2
This verse could be seen as morally conflicting because it uses the story of two sisters to convey a message about infidelity and judgment. Some readers might find it troubling that the metaphor of unfaithfulness is applied so explicitly and that the consequences are portrayed in a way that could seem harsh or gender-biased. This might lead to discussions about how moral lessons are depicted and applied, particularly in terms of gender representation and the severity of punishment.