Contradiction with Proverbs 10:12
This verse suggests love covers all sins, contrasting with Reuben's harsh offer of his sons for the potential loss of Benjamin.
Proverbs 10:12: Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.
Contradiction with Proverbs 15:1
Advocates for a soft answer turning away wrath, contradicting the severity in Reuben's response.
Proverbs 15:1: A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
Contradiction with Proverbs 19:11
Speaks about the glory in overlooking a transgression, contrasting with Reuben's proposal of punishment.
Proverbs 19:11: The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and [it is] his glory to pass over a transgression. [discretion: or, prudence]
Contradiction with James 3:17
Calls for wisdom from above being gentle and merciful, differing from Reuben's drastic solution.
James 3:17: But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, [and] easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. [partiality: or, wrangling]
Paradox #1
In Genesis 42:37, Reuben offers his own sons as a guarantee for Benjamin's safety. The moral inconsistency here could be the willingness to risk the lives of his children. This can conflict with the moral value of protecting and valuing one's family and children.