Contradictions and Paradoxes in Genesis 21:16

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Genesis 21:16 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Genesis 21:16. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Moses, who is believed to have written this story, Hagar was feeling very sad and scared because she thought her son might die. She moved away so she wouldn't have to watch, and she cried out loud because she loved him so much.

Genesis 21:16: And she went, and sat her down over against [him] a good way off, as it were a bowshot: for she said, Let me not see the death of the child. And she sat over against [him], and lift up her voice, and wept.

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 31:6

This verse suggests not to fear or abandon others because God will not forsake you, contradicting Hagar's action of distancing herself from Ishmael.

Deuteronomy 31:6: Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he [it is] that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

Contradiction with Matthew 6:26

Emphasizes God's care for all his creations, which contradicts Hagar's belief that no help would come for Ishmael.

Matthew 6:26: Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?

Contradiction with Psalm 34:17

States that God hears and delivers the righteous from their troubles, contradicting the sense of hopelessness in Hagar's action.

Psalm 34:17: [The righteous] cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles.

Contradiction with Isaiah 41:10

Encourages not to fear because God is with you, contradicting Hagar's fearful behavior in isolating Ishmael.

Isaiah 41:10: Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Contradiction with Hebrews 13:5

Assures that God will never leave nor forsake one, contradicting the implication of abandonment by Hagar.

Hebrews 13:5: [Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

Paradox #1

The potential contradiction or conflict in this verse could be about the theme of abandonment. The situation involves a mother distancing herself emotionally from her child in a time of distress. It might raise questions about the morality of leaving a child in a vulnerable position rather than seeking help or comfort, contrasting with values of parental care and protection.

Disclaimer: The content provided at PolarBible.com is for educational purposes only. Readers have the full right to agree or disagree with the interpretations and conclusions presented. We take no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken based on the information shared as Polar Verses.