Contradiction with Ezra 7:6
Ezra 7:6 describes Ezra as a scribe skilled in the Law of Moses, implying he would naturally know how to summon Levites without needing instruction, which contradicts needing instruction in Ezra 8:17.
Ezra 7:6: This Ezra went up from Babylon; and he [was] a ready scribe in the law of Moses, which the LORD God of Israel had given: and the king granted him all his request, according to the hand of the LORD his God upon him.
Contradiction with Ezra 7:10
This verse portrays Ezra as a devout and knowledgeable leader who had prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord, suggesting he wouldn't need guidance in seeking Levites as stated in Ezra 8:17.
Ezra 7:10: For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the LORD, and to do [it], and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments.
Contradiction with Nehemiah 8:1-2
Ezra is depicted as a leader and teacher in Israel who knows where Levites are, contrasting with the assistance described in Ezra 8:17 to find Levites.
Nehemiah 8:1-2: And all the people gathered themselves together as one man into the street that [was] before the water gate; and they spake unto Ezra the scribe to bring the book of the law of Moses, which the LORD had commanded to Israel.
Contradiction with Ezra 8:21
Ezra proclaims fasting and prayer for a safe journey, highlighting his spiritual leadership and vision, which contradicts the need to instruct people for finding Levites in Ezra 8:17.
Ezra 8:21: Then I proclaimed a fast there, at the river of Ahava, that we might afflict ourselves before our God, to seek of him a right way for us, and for our little ones, and for all our substance.
Contradiction with Ezra 8:9
Presents a specific count of the children of certain leaders, indicating a clear knowledge and organization that contradicts the scenario of needing assistance for finding Levites in Ezra 8:17.
Ezra 8:9: Of the sons of Joab; Obadiah the son of Jehiel, and with him two hundred and eighteen males.