Contradictions and Paradoxes in Genesis 12:16

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Genesis 12:16 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Genesis 12:16. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Moses, who wrote Genesis, Abram was treated very nicely and given many gifts by a king because of Sarai, his wife. Abram got animals like sheep, cows, and donkeys, and also people to help him with his work.

Genesis 12:16: And he entreated Abram well for her sake: and he had sheep, and oxen, and he asses, and menservants, and maidservants, and she asses, and camels.

Contradiction with Exodus 20:17

This verse condemns coveting a neighbor's possessions, contrasting with Genesis 12:16 where Abram benefits materially from Sarai's situation with Pharaoh.

Exodus 20:17: Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that [is] thy neighbour's.

Contradiction with Matthew 6:19-20

Advises against laying up treasures on earth, while Genesis 12:16 shows Abram amassing wealth.

Matthew 6:19-20: Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:

Contradiction with Proverbs 23:4

Advises against laboring to be rich, yet Genesis 12:16 implies Abram's wealth increase through Sarai's situation.

Proverbs 23:4: Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom.

Contradiction with James 1:9-10

Suggests the rich should take pride in their low position, conflicting with Abram's increased status and possessions in Genesis 12:16.

James 1:9-10: Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted: [rejoice: or, glory]

Contradiction with Matthew 6:24

States no one can serve both God and money, while Genesis 12:16 shows monetary gain as a consequence of Abram's actions.

Matthew 6:24: No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.

Paradox #1

Genesis 12:16 involves Abram receiving wealth because of his wife Sarai. The moral conflict here could be that Abram benefits materially by letting Pharaoh believe Sarai is his sister, potentially putting her in a vulnerable position. Some might see this as inconsistent with later Biblical values that emphasize honesty and protection for one's spouse.

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