Contradiction with Genesis 2:24
This verse speaks of a man leaving his family and cleaving to his wife, suggesting a monogamous relationship, contradicting the polygamous nature of Abram taking Hagar as a second partner.
Genesis 2:24: Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
Contradiction with Matthew 19:4-6
Jesus refers to the creation narrative, emphasizing monogamy by stating that two shall become one flesh, in contrast to Abram’s relationship with both Sarai and Hagar.
Matthew 19:4-6: And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made [them] at the beginning made them male and female,
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 7:2
Advises each man to have his own wife, and each woman her own husband, advocating monogamy over the polygamous action in Genesis 16:3.
1 Corinthians 7:2: Nevertheless, [to avoid] fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 3:2
States that a bishop should be the husband of one wife, promoting monogamy as favorable leadership, unlike Abram's taking of Hagar.
1 Timothy 3:2: A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; [of good...: or, modest]
Contradiction with Matthew 5:28
Warns against lustful thoughts as akin to adultery, highlighting purity in relationships, contrasting Abram's acceptance of Hagar upon Sarai's suggestion.
Matthew 5:28: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
Paradox #1
Some people might see a contradiction in how God's promises and human actions interact. God promised Abraham many descendants through his wife, Sarah, but this verse shows Sarah taking matters into her own hands by having her servant, Hagar, bear a child for Abraham. This might seem inconsistent with trusting God's plan, as they acted out of impatience or doubt rather than waiting for the promise to naturally come true.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in Genesis 16:3 can be seen in the action of Sarai giving her maidservant Hagar to Abram to have a child. This may conflict with later biblical teachings that emphasize the importance of faith and patience in God's promises, as well as the value of marital fidelity. The decision to have a child through another woman can appear inconsistent with these values.