Genesis 27:35 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to the author of Genesis, this verse means that Jacob, with some trickiness, took away the special blessing that was meant for his brother Esau. In simple words, Jacob was sneaky and got something really important that Esau was supposed to have.

Contradiction with Proverbs 20:17

It states that bread obtained by deceit is sweet, which might seem to justify Jacob's deception, contrasting with the negative consequence in Genesis 27:35.

Proverbs 20:17: Bread of deceit [is] sweet to a man; but afterwards his mouth shall be filled with gravel. [deceit: Heb. lying, or, falsehood]

Contradiction with Exodus 20:16

This commandment forbids bearing false witness, contradicting the deceitful actions leading to Genesis 27:35.

Exodus 20:16: Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.

Contradiction with Proverbs 12:22

Here, lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, contradicting the successful deceit in Genesis 27:35.

Proverbs 12:22: Lying lips [are] abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly [are] his delight.

Contradiction with Matthew 7:12

The principle of treating others as one wants to be treated opposes the deceit in Genesis 27:35.

Matthew 7:12: Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.

Contradiction with Colossians 3:9

Encourages not to lie to one another, contradicting the deception employed by Jacob.

Colossians 3:9: Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;

Paradox #1

The verse could be seen as conflicting with themes of honesty and justice found elsewhere in the Bible. It involves deception, as someone is given a blessing meant for another person. This might seem inconsistent with teachings against deceit or with the idea that blessings and God's favor should come through fair and truthful means.

Paradox #2

Genesis 27:35 involves a situation of deceit where Jacob receives a blessing intended for Esau. The contradiction here could be that Jacob's deceitful actions, encouraged by his mother Rebecca, lead to him receiving a blessing, which raises questions about whether deceitful behavior is being rewarded. This can be conflicting because honesty is generally a key moral value, yet here deceit appears to have a favorable outcome.