Contradiction with Exodus 20:13
"Thou shalt not kill" contradicts the act of killing described in Genesis 34:25.
Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Advises to "love your enemies," contradicting the vengeful actions taken in Genesis 34:25.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with Romans 12:19
"Avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath," which contradicts the revenge in Genesis 34:25.
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 Proverbs 20:22
Advises against repaying evil with evil, contradicting the actions in Genesis 34:25.
Proverbs 20:22: Say not thou, I will recompense evil; [but] wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.
Contradiction with Colossians 3:13
Encourages forgiveness, which contradicts the retaliatory actions in Genesis 34:25.
Colossians 3:13: Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also [do] ye. [quarrel: or, complaint]
Contradiction with James 1:20
States that "the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God," contradicting the revengeful actions in Genesis 34:25.
James 1:20: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in Genesis 34:25 could be related to the use of violence. The Bible generally teaches values like mercy, forgiveness, and peace. However, this verse describes an act of violence, which could be seen as conflicting with those teachings.
Paradox #2
Genesis 34:25 describes an act of violence committed by two of Jacob's sons, Simeon and Levi. The potential doctrinal conflict arises because the Bible elsewhere teaches principles like forgiveness, mercy, and justice (e.g., "Love your enemies" from Matthew 5:44). This action of revenge and violence can seem inconsistent with those teachings.
Paradox #3
Genesis 34:25 describes an event where two brothers, Simeon and Levi, attack a city in response to their sister's mistreatment. The potential contradiction here is related to the sudden and intense violence described, which may conflict with historical and archeological records suggesting that cities in ancient times were more fortified and had organized defenses, making such a small-scale attack resulting in complete victory seem less plausible. Additionally, ethical and moral questions may arise from the violent retribution, contrasting with later biblical laws suggesting proportionate justice.
Paradox #4
The contradiction or conflict in this situation arises from the act of violence used for revenge. While seeking justice might be understandable, the use of deceit and violence as a means to achieve it can conflict with moral teachings on forgiveness or non-violence.