Contradiction with Genesis 50:20
While Genesis 37:20 involves a plot to harm Joseph, Genesis 50:20 shows that what was meant for evil was turned to good by God's plan.
Genesis 50:20: But as for you, ye thought evil against me; [but] God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as [it is] this day, to save much people alive.
Contradiction with Exodus 20:13
Genesis 37:20 involves plotting to kill Joseph, whereas Exodus 20:13 commands, "Thou shalt not kill," promoting the sanctity of life.
Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.
Contradiction with Proverbs 24:17
The plot in Genesis 37:20 rejoices at the thought of Joseph's downfall, while Proverbs 24:17 advises against rejoicing when your enemy falls.
Proverbs 24:17: Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Genesis 37:20 involves hatred towards Joseph, while Matthew 5:44 instructs to love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.
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
The conspiracy in Genesis 37:20 seeks vengeance on Joseph, but Romans 12:19 urges believers to leave vengeance to God.
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 James 4:11
Genesis 37:20 involves speaking ill and conspiring against a brother, while James 4:11 warns against speaking evil of one another.
James 4:11: Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of [his] brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge.
Contradiction with 1 John 3:15
Genesis 37:20 contemplates murder, but 1 John 3:15 equates hatred with murder and states it is incompatible with eternal life.
1 John 3:15: Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.
Paradox #1
One possible contradiction related to this verse is that it mentions the idea of killing Joseph and throwing him into a pit, but later, his brothers decide to sell him instead. This change in their plan can seem inconsistent with their initial intention.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in Genesis 37:20 can be seen in the action of plotting harm against a family member. On one hand, the Bible teaches love and kindness, especially towards family. On the other hand, this verse depicts brothers planning to harm one of their own, which conflicts with the moral principle of family unity and care.