Contradictions and Paradoxes in Ezra 7:14

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Ezra 7:14 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Ezra 7:14. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Ezra, this verse tells us that the king is sending someone very important to Judah and Jerusalem to make sure everything is being done the way God wants it to be. This person is trusted to use God's rules to help and guide the people there.

Ezra 7:14: Forasmuch as thou art sent of the king, and of his seven counsellors, to enquire concerning Judah and Jerusalem, according to the law of thy God which [is] in thine hand; [of the king: Chaldee, from before the king]

Contradiction with Acts 10:34-35

These verses emphasize that God is no respecter of persons and accepts those from every nation who fear Him, which could contrast with the specific sending of Ezra to enforce Jewish law.

Acts 10:34-35: Then Peter opened [his] mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:

Contradiction with Galatians 3:28

This verse speaks to the equality of all people in Christ, contrasting with the distinction of roles and authority implied in Ezra's mission.

Galatians 3:28: There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

Contradiction with Matthew 28:19-20

These verses command the making of disciples of all nations, potentially conflicting with Ezra's focus on Jewish law for the Jewish people.

Matthew 28:19-20: Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: [teach...: or, make disciples, or, Christians of all nations]

Contradiction with Romans 2:28-29

This speaks of true circumcision being of the heart, contrasting with Ezra's role in enforcing the literal law among the people.

Romans 2:28-29: For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither [is that] circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:

Contradiction with Colossians 2:14

Paul mentions the cancellation of the written code with its regulations, which may contradict the emphasis on following the law given to Ezra.

Colossians 2:14: Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;

Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 1:27-29

Paul points out that God uses the lowly and despised things of the world to nullify the things that are, which could contrast with the authoritative sending of a learned scribe like Ezra.

1 Corinthians 1:27-29: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;

Paradox #1

Ezra 7:14 involves King Artaxerxes of Persia commissioning Ezra to appoint magistrates and judges in Judah. Historically, some scholars question the accuracy of Persian kings giving such religious and judicial authority to Jewish leaders, as Persian policy typically respected local customs but maintained strict control over judicial and administrative matters. This presents a potential inconsistency with historical Persian administrative practices.

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