Contradictions and Paradoxes in Ezra 7:1

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Ezra 7:1 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Ezra 7:1. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Ezra, this verse tells us about a man named Ezra, who lived when a king named Artaxerxes ruled Persia. Ezra's family had important people in it, and he was getting ready to do something special for God.

Ezra 7:1: Now after these things, in the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia, Ezra the son of Seraiah, the son of Azariah, the son of Hilkiah,

Contradiction with Genesis 10:32

Contradicts the timing of the lineage in Ezra 7:1 as Genesis details all nations after the flood, suggesting a complete genealogical record before Ezra's time.

Genesis 10:32: These [are] the families of the sons of Noah, after their generations, in their nations: and by these were the nations divided in the earth after the flood.

Contradiction with Exodus 24:7

Highlights a different covenant experience compared to Ezra 7:1's focus on a specific lineage and decree.

Exodus 24:7: And he took the book of the covenant, and read in the audience of the people: and they said, All that the LORD hath said will we do, and be obedient.

Contradiction with Numbers 12:6-8

Presents a different form of direct communication between God and Moses, contrasting with Ezra's mediated commission.

Numbers 12:6-8: And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, [I] the LORD will make myself known unto him in a vision, [and] will speak unto him in a dream.

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 34:10

Claims no prophet like Moses has arisen, which may contrast with Ezra's prominent role.

Deuteronomy 34:10: And there arose not a prophet since in Israel like unto Moses, whom the LORD knew face to face,

Contradiction with Judges 21:25

Describes a time of no centralized leadership, potentially conflicting with the structured authority implied in Ezra 7:1.

Judges 21:25: In those days [there was] no king in Israel: every man did [that which was] right in his own eyes.

Contradiction with 1 Samuel 3:1

Speaks of a lack of vision and rarity of God's word, opposed to Ezra 7:1's context where God’s law is fully accessible.

1 Samuel 3:1: And the child Samuel ministered unto the LORD before Eli. And the word of the LORD was precious in those days; [there was] no open vision.

Contradiction with 2 Kings 17:6-7

Describes the exile due to disobedience, which contradicts Ezra 7:1’s narrative of return and restoration.

2 Kings 17:6-7: In the ninth year of Hoshea the king of Assyria took Samaria, and carried Israel away into Assyria, and placed them in Halah and in Habor [by] the river of Gozan, and in the cities of the Medes.

Contradiction with Nehemiah 13:7-9

Suggests a conflict with temple practices, contrasting with Ezra 7's religious dedication.

Nehemiah 13:7-9: And I came to Jerusalem, and understood of the evil that Eliashib did for Tobiah, in preparing him a chamber in the courts of the house of God.

Contradiction with Isaiah 29:13

Criticizes hollow worship, potentially contradicting the religious intent mentioned in Ezra 7:1.

Isaiah 29:13: Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near [me] with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:

Contradiction with Jeremiah 31:31-33

Promises a new covenant, in contrast with the continuation of old practices in Ezra 7:1.

Jeremiah 31:31-33: Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:

Contradiction with Hosea 6:6

Emphasizes mercy over sacrifice, differing from Ezra’s legal adherence as found in Ezra 7:1.

Hosea 6:6: For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.

Contradiction with Amos 5:21-23

Rejects ritual worship without justice, which can oppose the ceremonial emphasis in Ezra.

Amos 5:21-23: I hate, I despise your feast days, and I will not smell in your solemn assemblies. [in...: or, your holy days]

Contradiction with Matthew 5:17

Introduces a fulfillment of the law in Christ, seemingly contrasting with Ezra's focus on Mosaic law.

Matthew 5:17: Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.

Contradiction with John 1:17

Declares grace and truth through Jesus, contrasting the law structure in Ezra.

John 1:17: For the law was given by Moses, [but] grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.

Contradiction with Galatians 3:10-11

Criticizes reliance on the law for righteousness, which Ezra 7:1 might seem to emphasize.

Galatians 3:10-11: For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed [is] every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.
Disclaimer: The content provided at PolarBible.com is for educational purposes only. Readers have the full right to agree or disagree with the interpretations and conclusions presented. We take no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken based on the information shared as Polar Verses.