Contradiction with Exodus 21:12
This verse states that anyone who smites a man so that he dies shall be put to death, while Genesis 4:15 protects Cain from being killed after committing murder.
Exodus 21:12: He that smiteth a man, so that he die, shall be surely put to death.
Contradiction with Romans 12:19
This verse advises against seeking vengeance and leaves it to God, contradicting Genesis 4:15 where God directly protects Cain from vengeance.
Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 19:21
This verse promotes the "eye for eye" principle, conflicting with God's protection of Cain in Genesis 4:15 from retributive justice.
Deuteronomy 19:21: And thine eye shall not pity; [but] life [shall go] for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.
Paradox #1
One potential contradiction of Genesis 4:15 arises from the concept of divine justice. In the verse, God offers protection to Cain after he commits murder, which seems inconsistent with the idea of punishment for wrongdoing. This could conflict with other biblical teachings where sin is met with direct consequences.
Paradox #2
Some people see a contradiction in the way God's justice is shown in this verse compared to other parts of the Bible. While the verse discusses a form of protection for a wrongdoer, other parts of the Bible emphasize punishment for wrongdoing. This might seem inconsistent with the idea of retribution that is shown elsewhere.
Paradox #3
One possible conflict in Genesis 4:15 is the notion of Cain receiving a protective mark from God after committing murder. Historically and theologically, this may seem inconsistent because it appears that Cain is both punished and protected by God. This duality can be puzzling, as it raises questions about justice and divine mercy. Why would Cain be safeguarded after such an act? Interpretations vary, and this has led to debates over the nature of divine justice and protection.
Paradox #4
The scientific inconsistency in this verse relates to the concept of human population genetics and the origin of humanity. The implication that a single individual's actions would lead to a significant concern about retaliation from others suggests the existence of a larger, unrelated human population at the time. This conflicts with the scientific understanding of human origins, as rooted in evolutionary biology, which indicates that early humans arose from a small, interconnected population rather than from isolated individuals.
Paradox #5
Genesis 4:15 might seem morally contradictory because it involves God protecting Cain, who committed murder. Some people might find it inconsistent that God chooses to protect someone who has done something morally wrong, instead of punishing him more severely for his actions. This can lead to questions about justice and mercy.