Ezra 4:1 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to the author of the book of Ezra, the people who were against Judah and Benjamin learned that the people who had returned from far away were building a temple for God. These opponents did not want them to succeed in building their temple.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

While Ezra 4:1 describes opposition from adversaries, Matthew 5:44 teaches to love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.

Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

Contradiction with Proverbs 24:17

Ezra 4:1 describes adversaries trying to halt the rebuilding, whereas Proverbs 24:17 advises against gloating over your enemy's downfall.

Proverbs 24:17: Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:

Contradiction with Romans 12:20

Ezra 4:1 highlights hostility from adversaries, but Romans 12:20 instructs to feed and care for your enemy if they are in need.

Romans 12:20: Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.

Contradiction with Exodus 23:4

Ezra 4:1 is about opposition, while Exodus 23:4 speaks about returning your enemy's lost property.

Exodus 23:4: If thou meet thine enemy's ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again.

Contradiction with Luke 6:27

Ezra 4:1 deals with adversarial actions, whereas Luke 6:27 enjoins followers to love their enemies and do good to those who hate them.

Luke 6:27: But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,

Contradiction with Proverbs 25:21

Contrasts with the conflict in Ezra 4:1 by advising to provide for the enemy's needs.