Contradiction with Proverbs 28:20
A faithful man shall abound with blessings: Genesis 49:4 describes Reuben as unstable and not excelling, which contrasts with the prosperity of the faithful.
Proverbs 28:20: A faithful man shall abound with blessings: but he that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent. [innocent: or, unpunished]
Contradiction with James 1:8
A double minded man is unstable in all his ways: Unlike the prediction of Reuben's future, this suggests instability leads to failure, not success.
James 1:8: A double minded man [is] unstable in all his ways.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:3
Blessed are the poor in spirit: Genesis 49:4 implies a negative outcome for Reuben, whereas Matthew 5:3 suggests weakness can lead to blessings.
Matthew 5:3: Blessed [are] the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Contradiction with 1 Peter 5:10
But the God of all grace...establish, strengthen, settle you: This is contrary to Reuben's unstable image, as this verse promises stability and strength.
1 Peter 5:10: But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle [you].
Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 12:9
...for my strength is made perfect in weakness: Reuben's instability is viewed negatively, whereas this verse speaks to power in weakness through grace.
2 Corinthians 12:9: And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
Paradox #1
Genesis 49:4 might be seen as inconsistent regarding Reuben's role and status among the tribes of Israel. Earlier, Reuben is mentioned as the firstborn and typically the firstborn holds a place of prominence and blessing within a family. However, this verse indicates a loss of his privileged position due to his actions, which seems to conflict with the traditional role and blessing associated with being the firstborn. This shift from expectation could be seen as a contradiction with the customary rights of the firstborn in biblical tradition.
Paradox #2
Historically, some scholars see a contradiction in that the tribe of Reuben, which Genesis 49:4 indicates will not excel or be prominent, is sometimes depicted in other parts of the Bible as having important roles or significant land holdings. This inconsistency can lead to discussions about the tribe's actual influence and presence in historical and biblical narratives.
Paradox #3
Genesis 49:4 might present a moral inconsistency due to its focus on lineage and blessings based on past behavior, which contrasts with the idea of forgiveness and redemption found elsewhere in the Bible. The notion of being judged harshly for past mistakes conflicts with themes of second chances and personal growth.