Contradiction with Proverbs 28:13
This verse states that those who confess and forsake sins will find mercy, while Genesis 42:21 reflects a sense of unconfessed guilt and unresolved punishment.
Proverbs 28:13: He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh [them] shall have mercy.
Contradiction with Matthew 6:14-15
These verses suggest forgiveness of others leads to one's forgiveness from God, contrasting with the brothers' belief they're being punished.
Matthew 6:14-15: For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:
Contradiction with 1 John 1:9
This verse highlights the idea of confessing sins for cleansing and forgiveness, whereas Genesis 42:21 shows the brothers feeling guilty without confession.
1 John 1:9: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us [our] sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Contradiction with Isaiah 55:7
This verse says that forsaking wicked ways and returning to the Lord will lead to mercy, differing from the unresolved guilt expressed in Genesis 42:21.
Isaiah 55:7: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. [the unrighteous...: Heb. the man of iniquity] [abundantly...: Heb. multiply to pardon]
Paradox #1
Genesis 42:21 describes a moment of guilt and recognition among Joseph's brothers for their past actions against him. A potential doctrinal inconsistency might be the tension between divine justice and human guilt. Some may question how divine justice operates when actions result in feelings of guilt and self-realization, as seen in the brothers acknowledging their wrongdoing. However, this is less a contradiction and more a complex interplay between themes of justice, guilt, and repentance. Overall, it supports the idea of moral accountability in biblical narratives.
Paradox #2
Genesis 42:21 can present a moral conflict due to the theme of guilt and consequences. The brothers express remorse and recognize their past wrongdoing against Joseph, yet they initially failed to act morally when they had the chance. This can highlight a conflict between initial immoral actions and later regret, raising questions about accountability and redemption.