Contradiction with Matthew 5:39
While Genesis 27:40 speaks of living by the sword, Matthew 5:39 teaches to turn the other cheek instead of seeking revenge.
Matthew 5:39: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
Contradiction with Romans 12:19
Romans advises against taking vengeance, which contradicts the notion of living by the sword as suggested in Genesis 27:40.
Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Contradiction with Isaiah 2:4
Isaiah's vision of beating swords into plowshares and not learning war anymore contrasts with the live-by-the-sword ethos of Genesis 27:40.
Isaiah 2:4: And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. [pruninghooks: or, scythes]
Contradiction with Proverbs 25:21-22
Encouraging kindness to enemies, Proverbs 25:21-22 contradicts the aggressive approach implied in Genesis 27:40.
Proverbs 25:21-22: If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:
Contradiction with Matthew 26:52
Matthew warns that those who live by the sword will die by it, contrasting the reliance on the sword described in Genesis 27:40.
Matthew 26:52: Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?
Paradox #1
The contradiction or conflict in Genesis 27:40 might arise when considering God's broader promise of peace and prosperity to Jacob's descendants. This verse suggests a life of struggle and subjugation for Esau, which might seem inconsistent with the notion of equality and justice among all peoples. Additionally, it could appear to conflict with concepts of reconciliation and forgiveness if read in isolation, given the ongoing conflict between the brothers.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in Genesis 27:40 could be related to the prophecy given to Esau and its fulfillment. Some historical accounts show that the descendants of Esau (Edomites) were often subjugated by Israel, while at times they were allies or independent. This inconsistency could pose questions about the full realization of the prophecy and its historical timeline.