Contradiction with Exodus 21:10
While Genesis 21:10 speaks about casting out the bondwoman and her son, Exodus 21:10 states that if a man takes another wife, he shall not diminish the rights of the first wife, ensuring her well-being and maintaining a relationship, which could contradict the idea of casting out without provision.
Exodus 21:10: If he take him another [wife]; her food, her raiment, and her duty of marriage, shall he not diminish.
Contradiction with Galatians 4:30
This verse quotes Genesis 21:10 to argue that the bondwoman and her son should be cast out, yet in a broader context, Galatians discusses the freedom and inheritance of believers, which some might argue indicates a contradiction in the treatment of individuals regarding spiritual inheritance.
Galatians 4:30: Nevertheless what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son: for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the freewoman.
Paradox #1
Genesis 21:10 involves Sarah asking Abraham to send away Hagar and her son, Ishmael, to ensure her son, Isaac, inherits without competition. This can be seen as contradictory to the earlier promise God made to Hagar in Genesis 16, assuring her descendants through Ishmael would also be numerous. The conflict arises from God's promise to both sons, Isaac and Ishmael, leading to questions about fairness and the nature of God's blessings.
Paradox #2
Genesis 21:10 discusses Sarah asking Abraham to send away Hagar and her son Ishmael. The potential doctrinal conflict here could be related to themes of inheritance and the treatment of individuals. In particular, it might contrast with later biblical teachings about justice, compassion, and the acceptance of all people, as seen in the New Testament, where inclusivity is emphasized. This could suggest a tension between Old Testament actions and New Testament ideals.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or inconsistency might arise from the practices around inheritance and family dynamics in ancient times. In Genesis 21:10, the directive could conflict with norms regarding firstborn rights, where typically the firstborn son had special privileges. In this case, the direction to prioritize the status of Isaac over Ishmael, despite Ishmael being older, might contradict those prevalent customs.
Paradox #4
The moral conflict in Genesis 21:10 could involve issues of fairness and compassion. The verse deals with Sarah asking Abraham to send away Hagar and her son Ishmael, which raises questions about the treatment of Hagar and Ishmael. This can be seen as a conflict between familial loyalty and compassion for others, highlighting potential issues of favoritism and ethical treatment.