Contradiction with Deuteronomy 21:17
This verse outlines the law of the firstborn, stating the inheritance rights of the actual firstborn son, which contradicts the blessing of Ephraim over the firstborn Manasseh in Genesis 48:20.
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 Genesis 25:23
This verse shows God's declaration that the elder shall serve the younger in the case of Esau and Jacob, contradicting the reversal blessing in Genesis 48:20 where the younger is blessed over the elder.
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 1 Chronicles 5:1-2
These verses recognize Reuben as the firstborn but mention that Joseph received the birthright because Reuben defiled his father's bed, which indicates the complexity of birthright and blessing, providing a different context than the straightforward preference in Genesis 48:20.
1 Chronicles 5:1-2: Now the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel, (for he [was] the firstborn; but, forasmuch as he defiled his father's bed, his birthright was given unto the sons of Joseph the son of Israel: and the genealogy is not to be reckoned after the birthright.
Contradiction with Romans 9:12-13
These verses highlight the concept of divine selection with Jacob over Esau, yet differ in context as Paul discusses divine purpose contrary to human tradition, which contrasts with the human actions in Genesis 48:20.
Romans 9:12-13: It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. [elder: or, greater] [younger: or, lesser]
Paradox #1
Genesis 48:20 involves the blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh, where Ephraim, the younger brother, is blessed over Manasseh, the firstborn. A potential historical inconsistency here is that traditionally, in many ancient cultures, including the early Israelite society, the firstborn son typically received the primary blessing or inheritance. This scene reflects a repeated biblical theme of the younger sibling receiving favor over the older, which might seem inconsistent with historical norms.