Contradiction with Genesis 25:23
While Genesis 48:14 shows the younger being blessed over the elder, Genesis 25:23 prophesies the elder shall serve the younger.
Genesis 25:23: And the LORD said unto her, Two nations [are] in thy womb, and two manner of people shall be separated from thy bowels; and [the one] people shall be stronger than [the other] people; and the elder shall serve the younger.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 21:17
This verse states the firstborn should receive a double portion, contradicting Jacob's blessing of the younger son.
Deuteronomy 21:17: But he shall acknowledge the son of the hated [for] the firstborn, by giving him a double portion of all that he hath: for he [is] the beginning of his strength; the right of the firstborn [is] his. [that...: Heb. that is found with him]
Contradiction with 1 Chronicles 5:2
Indicates the birthright was given to Joseph, contradicting his sons receiving individual blessings.
1 Chronicles 5:2: For Judah prevailed above his brethren, and of him [came] the chief ruler; but the birthright [was] Joseph's:) [chief...: or, prince]
Contradiction with Romans 9:12-13
Supports the idea of the elder serving the younger, contradictory by reaffirming Jacob's actions.
Romans 9:12-13: It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. [elder: or, greater] [younger: or, lesser]
Contradiction with Numbers 3:12-13
Sets a precedent that the firstborns are to be sanctified, contrasting with the blessing given to Ephraim over Manasseh.
Numbers 3:12-13: And I, behold, I have taken the Levites from among the children of Israel instead of all the firstborn that openeth the matrix among the children of Israel: therefore the Levites shall be mine;
Paradox #1
There isn't a significant contradiction or conflict associated with Genesis 48:14. The passage describes Jacob crossing his hands to bless Joseph's younger son, Ephraim, over the elder, Manasseh, which is an action that some might find unconventional since the elder typically receives the primary blessing. However, this act symbolizes God's sovereign choice and grace, similar to other instances in the Bible where the younger is chosen over the elder. Overall, it aligns with broader biblical themes rather than contradicting them.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in Genesis 48:14 could involve the cultural practice of blessing the firstborn or the eldest son during biblical times. Traditionally, the right hand was placed on the eldest to signify the primary blessing. In this verse, Jacob intentionally crosses his arms to place his right hand on Ephraim, the younger son, instead of Manasseh, the firstborn. This act goes against the usual cultural expectations and practices of primogeniture of that time, which might seem inconsistent with typical historical and cultural norms.
Paradox #3
The potential contradiction or conflict in Genesis 48:14 could be related to the idea of fairness and tradition. In the story, Jacob gives a greater blessing to the younger grandson, Ephraim, instead of the elder, Manasseh, which goes against the cultural norm of giving priority to the firstborn. This can be seen as conflicting with the expectation of treating each child according to established customs, potentially raising questions about favoritism and fairness.