Contradictions and Paradoxes in Genesis 43:34

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Genesis 43:34 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Genesis 43:34. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of Genesis, this story shows that Joseph gave his brother Benjamin much more food than the others to show how special he was. Everyone ate and drank together and were very happy.

Genesis 43:34: And he took [and sent] messes unto them from before him: but Benjamin's mess was five times so much as any of theirs. And they drank, and were merry with him. [were...: Heb. drank largely]

Contradiction with James 2:1

This verse teaches against favoritism, whereas Genesis 43:34 illustrates favoritism as Benjamin receives a portion five times larger than his brothers.

James 2:1: My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, [the Lord] of glory, with respect of persons.

Contradiction with Acts 10:34

This verse emphasizes that God shows no partiality, contrasting with Genesis 43:34, where Joseph shows favoritism by giving Benjamin a greater portion.

Acts 10:34: Then Peter opened [his] mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:

Contradiction with Romans 2:11

States that there is no respect of persons with God, yet Genesis 43:34 demonstrates favor through unequal portions.

Romans 2:11: For there is no respect of persons with God.

Contradiction with Proverbs 28:21

Warns against showing partiality, while Genesis 43:34 depicts Joseph favoring Benjamin over his brothers with larger portions.

Proverbs 28:21: To have respect of persons [is] not good: for for a piece of bread [that] man will transgress.

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 10:17

Declares God does not show favoritism, in contrast to Joseph's preferential treatment in Genesis 43:34 by giving Benjamin more than the others.

Deuteronomy 10:17: For the LORD your God [is] God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward:

Paradox #1

Genesis 43:34 mentions a scene where Joseph sends portions of food to his brothers, with Benjamin receiving a portion five times larger. One possible inconsistency is cultural context—typically, older siblings received larger portions as a sign of respect or hierarchy. The unusually large portion to Benjamin might seem contradictory to these customs. However, since Joseph was testing his brothers' jealousy, this action fits the narrative rather than presenting a genuine cultural contradiction. Therefore, it doesn’t significantly conflict with historical context. Overall, the scripture reflects narrative purposes rather than strict historical customs, aligning with the story's broader themes of reconciliation and testing character.

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