Contradiction with Malachi 2:16
This verse states that God hates divorce, which contradicts the actions taken in Ezra 10:44 where Israelites separate from their foreign wives.
Malachi 2:16: For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for [one] covereth violence with his garment, saith the LORD of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously. [that he...: or, if he hate her, put her away] [putting...: Heb. to put away]
Contradiction with Matthew 19:6
This verse emphasizes that what God has joined together, let no one separate, contradicting the dissolution of marriages in Ezra 10:44.
Matthew 19:6: Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
Contradiction with Mark 10:9
Similar to Matthew 19:6, this verse insists that marriage should not be dissolved by human decision, in contrast to the separations in Ezra 10:44.
Mark 10:9: What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 7:12-13
These verses advise believers to remain with an unbelieving spouse if they are willing to stay, contradicting the directive in Ezra 10:44 to send away foreign wives.
1 Corinthians 7:12-13: But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath a wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away.
Paradox #1
Ezra 10:44 may raise questions about the consistency of religious teachings on marriage. The issue arises because the verse deals with the dissolution of marriages between Israelites and foreign women, which seems to contradict other biblical teachings that emphasize the sanctity and permanence of marriage. This could lead to a theological conflict regarding the acceptable reasons for ending a marriage and how cultural or religious differences influence this.
Paradox #2
Ezra 10:44 discusses the issue of Israelites marrying foreign women, which was considered a sin that needed to be rectified. This conflicts with other parts of the Bible where marrying foreign women is not always seen as negative. For example, Ruth, a Moabite, is a revered figure and becomes part of the lineage of King David and Jesus. This creates a contradiction about the acceptability of intermarriage with foreigners.
Paradox #3
Ezra 10:44 raises questions about the historical and cultural context of divorce and mixed marriages in ancient Israel. It involves complexities about how these marriages were handled, the social and religious implications, and how it aligns or conflicts with other biblical teachings or historical records about marriage practices at the time.
Paradox #4
Ezra 10:44 could raise a moral conflict because it discusses sending away foreign wives and their children, which might be seen as unfair or harsh. This action might be viewed as conflicting with values of family unity and compassion, leading to tension between following religious commands and showing kindness to all family members.