Contradiction with Isaiah 19:21-25
This passage suggests that Egypt will come to know the Lord and be blessed alongside Israel, in contrast to Ezekiel 29:16, which states Egypt will no longer be a source of confidence for Israel.
Isaiah 19:21-25: And the LORD shall be known to Egypt, and the Egyptians shall know the LORD in that day, and shall do sacrifice and oblation; yea, they shall vow a vow unto the LORD, and perform [it].
Contradiction with Ezekiel 29:6
This verse indicates that Egypt will be a support for Israel, contradicting 29:16 where Egypt fails as a source of confidence.
Ezekiel 29:6: And all the inhabitants of Egypt shall know that I [am] the LORD, because they have been a staff of reed to the house of Israel.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 46:25-26
Here, Egypt's fate is destruction, unlike Ezekiel 29:16, which implies a humbling but continued existence for Egypt.
Jeremiah 46:25-26: The LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, saith; Behold, I will punish the multitude of No, and Pharaoh, and Egypt, with their gods, and their kings; even Pharaoh, and [all] them that trust in him: [multitude: or, nourisher: Heb. Amon]
Contradiction with Ezekiel 30:13
States that Egypt will no longer have idols or a prince, indicating total judgment, whereas 29:16 suggests a lesser role rather than complete devastation.
Ezekiel 30:13: Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will also destroy the idols, and I will cause [their] images to cease out of Noph; and there shall be no more a prince of the land of Egypt: and I will put a fear in the land of Egypt.
Contradiction with Isaiah 31:1-3
Warns Israel not to rely on Egypt, which presupposes that Egypt can be a potential support, conflicting with the idea in Ezekiel 29:16 that Egypt will no longer be a reliance point.
Isaiah 31:1-3: Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help; and stay on horses, and trust in chariots, because [they are] many; and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the LORD!
Paradox #1
Ezekiel 29:16 suggests that Egypt will never again be a source of confidence for Israel. A potential theological conflict might arise when considering other parts of the Bible where Egypt plays different roles, sometimes as a refuge or ally. This could seem inconsistent with the idea of a consistent role for Egypt throughout biblical history.
Paradox #2
Ezekiel 29:16 speaks about Egypt no longer being a source of confidence for Israel, after previously misleading them into trusting in something unstable. A potential contradiction could arise when considering ideas like forgiveness and reconciliation, which are often promoted elsewhere in religious teachings. If one part of religious doctrine suggests cutting ties or avoiding reliance on those who have misled, while another part encourages forgiveness and rebuilding relationships, this might create a perceived inconsistency. Balancing justice and accountability with forgiveness can sometimes lead to moral tensions.