Contradictions and Paradoxes in Ezra 4:15

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Ezra 4:15 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Ezra 4:15. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Ezra, people were asked to check the old records to see that this city had a history of causing trouble and rebelling against kings. Because of this, the city was destroyed in the past.

Ezra 4:15: That search may be made in the book of the records of thy fathers: so shalt thou find in the book of the records, and know that this city [is] a rebellious city, and hurtful unto kings and provinces, and that they have moved sedition within the same of old time: for which cause was this city destroyed. [moved: Chaldee, made] [within...: Chaldee, in the midst thereof]

Contradiction with Genesis 12:2

God promises Abraham to make a great nation, contrasting the negative portrayal of Jewish influence in Ezra 4:15.

Genesis 12:2: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing:

Contradiction with Isaiah 2:2

The nations will seek God's ways from Jerusalem, contrary to the claim that the city's influence is harmful in Ezra 4:15.

Isaiah 2:2: And it shall come to pass in the last days, [that] the mountain of the LORD'S house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it. [established: or, prepared]

Contradiction with Psalm 122:6

Encourages praying for Jerusalem's peace, opposing the insinuation of the city's historically rebellious nature in Ezra 4:15.

Psalm 122:6: Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee.

Contradiction with Micah 4:2

Many nations will seek teaching from Zion, contrasting the negative connotation of Jerusalem's reputation in Ezra 4:15.

Micah 4:2: And many nations shall come, and say, Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, and to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for the law shall go forth of Zion, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.

Contradiction with Zechariah 8:23

Nations will seek Jews for their connection to God, opposing the suggestion in Ezra 4:15 that their influence is undesirable.

Zechariah 8:23: Thus saith the LORD of hosts; In those days [it shall come to pass], that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard [that] God [is] with you.

Paradox #1

Ezra 4:15 might be viewed as contradictory or inconsistent due to its implication of manipulating historical records to stop Jerusalem's rebuilding. This could conflict with teachings about honesty and fairness in other parts of the Bible, where integrity in actions and dealings is emphasized.

Paradox #2

Ezra 4:15 contains claims about past events regarding Jerusalem that are characterized by oppositions and conflicts over historical interpretations. Critics argue that the description of the city's past rebellion and troublemaking does not entirely align with external historical records from that period. This inconsistency has led some scholars to question the accuracy or perspective of the historical narrative presented in this part of the text, considering it might reflect a biased viewpoint from those opposing the rebuilding efforts.

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