Contradiction with Joshua 21:43-45
These verses state that the Lord gave Israel all the land he had sworn to give, and they possessed it, indicating the fulfillment of the promise, which contrasts with an interpretation of Genesis 17:8 as an everlasting, yet unfulfilled promise.
Joshua 21:43-45: And the LORD gave unto Israel all the land which he sware to give unto their fathers; and they possessed it, and dwelt therein.
Contradiction with Hebrews 11:13
This verse explains that the patriarchs died without receiving the promises, seeing them only from a distance, which contradicts the notion of the land being an everlasting possession already given in Genesis 17:8.
Hebrews 11:13: These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of [them], and embraced [them], and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. [in faith: Gr. according to faith]
Paradox #1
Genesis 17:8 promises the land of Canaan to Abraham's descendants as an everlasting possession. The potential contradiction arises because, historically, this land has been occupied by various groups over time, not exclusively by Abraham's descendants. This raises questions about the fulfillment or interpretation of the "everlasting" promise in contemporary times.
Paradox #2
Some people might see a contradiction in the promise of land in the verse with the later historical experiences of the people, where they face exile and did not always hold the land. Others may see a conflict with the idea of a universal God since the promise is specific to one group. However, interpretations vary, and some see no contradiction at all.
Paradox #3
The verse promises a specific land to Abraham's descendants forever. The potential contradiction or conflict here lies in the complex history of the region and the fact that different groups have laid claim to it over the centuries. This has led to ongoing disputes and conflicts in the area, raising questions about the fulfillment of the promise.
Paradox #4
The contradiction or conflict in Genesis 17:8 could arise from the idea of God promising specific land to one group of people, which might be seen as conflicting with principles of equality and fairness, especially in a modern context where issues of land ownership and displacement can be contentious. It raises questions about divine favoritism and the ethical implications of displacing others already living on that land.