Contradiction with Numbers 6:3
This verse describes the Nazarite vow, which includes abstaining from wine, suggesting an intentional distinction from regular practices, whereas Ezekiel 44:21 restricts priests from drinking wine in a specific setting.
Numbers 6:3: He shall separate [himself] from wine and strong drink, and shall drink no vinegar of wine, or vinegar of strong drink, neither shall he drink any liquor of grapes, nor eat moist grapes, or dried.
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 5:23
This verse encourages the use of a little wine for health reasons, contrasting with the strict prohibition in Ezekiel 44:21.
1 Timothy 5:23: Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities.
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 9:7
This verse advises joyfully drinking wine as a part of enjoying life, which contrasts with the restriction in Ezekiel 44:21.
Ecclesiastes 9:7: Go thy way, eat thy bread with joy, and drink thy wine with a merry heart; for God now accepteth thy works.
Contradiction with Psalm 104:15
This verse speaks of wine making the heart glad, contrasting with the prohibition for priests in Ezekiel 44:21.
Psalm 104:15: And wine [that] maketh glad the heart of man, [and] oil to make [his] face to shine, and bread [which] strengtheneth man's heart. [oil...: Heb. to make his face shine with oil, or, more than oil]
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 14:26
This verse permits buying and consuming wine during a festival, conflicting with the restriction in Ezekiel 44:21 for priests serving in the temple.
Deuteronomy 14:26: And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household, [desireth: Heb. asketh of thee]
Paradox #1
Ezekiel 44:21 may present a contradiction or inconsistency because it imposes a specific rule for priests, but other parts of the Bible acknowledge the consumption of alcohol in moderation by believers, including clergy. This could seem inconsistent with the broader biblical guideline that does not strictly prohibit alcohol but advises against overindulgence.