Contradiction with Genesis 25:25
This verse describes Esau as the firstborn with a distinguishing feature of being red and hairy, which contradicts the marking of the firstborn with a scarlet thread as in Genesis 38:28.
Genesis 25:25: And the first came out red, all over like an hairy garment; and they called his name Esau.
Contradiction with Genesis 27:19
Jacob claims to be the firstborn, misleading Isaac, which contrasts with the clear marking of the firstborn in Genesis 38:28.
Genesis 27:19: And Jacob said unto his father, I [am] Esau thy firstborn; I have done according as thou badest me: arise, I pray thee, sit and eat of my venison, that thy soul may bless me.
Contradiction with Genesis 48:14
Jacob crosses his hands to bless Ephraim, the younger, over Manasseh, the firstborn, contrary to the clear designation of the firstborn in Genesis 38:28.
Genesis 48:14: And Israel stretched out his right hand, and laid [it] upon Ephraim's head, who [was] the younger, and his left hand upon Manasseh's head, guiding his hands wittingly; for Manasseh [was] the firstborn.
Contradiction with Exodus 4:22
God refers to Israel as His firstborn, which is symbolic and not marked by physical signs like the thread in Genesis 38:28.
Exodus 4:22: And thou shalt say unto Pharaoh, Thus saith the LORD, Israel [is] my son, [even] my firstborn:
Contradiction with Romans 9:12-13
God's choice of Jacob over Esau, despite Esau's birthright, contrasts with the physical marking of the firstborn in Genesis 38:28.
Romans 9:12-13: It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. [elder: or, greater] [younger: or, lesser]
Paradox #1
This verse might create confusion due to cultural and historical practices related to childbirth and inheritance. During ancient times, the firstborn had certain rights and privileges. In Genesis 38:28, the narrative includes the marking of a firstborn during a birth, but what happens afterward challenges those expectations. The contradiction arises because the identified firstborn is not the one who ultimately takes precedence, which might conflict with the traditional understanding of birth order importance in that historical context.