Contradiction with Matthew 5:39
Contradicts Genesis 4:23 by advocating for non-retaliation, whereas Genesis 4:23 speaks of vengeance.
Matthew 5:39: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
Contradiction with Romans 12:19
Encourages leaving vengeance to God, contrasting with Lamech's personal vengeance in Genesis 4:23.
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 Leviticus 19:18
Commands against seeking revenge, in opposition to Lamech's declaration of vengeance.
Leviticus 19:18: Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.
Contradiction with Proverbs 20:22
Advises against repaying evil, differing from Lamech's claim of avenging himself.
Proverbs 20:22: Say not thou, I will recompense evil; [but] wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.
Contradiction with 1 Peter 3:9
Urges repayment of evil with blessing, opposing Lamech's approach in Genesis 4:23.
1 Peter 3:9: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.
Paradox #1
Genesis 4:23 presents a situation where Lamech speaks about harming someone, which can raise questions about the nature of justice and revenge compared to other biblical teachings on forgiveness and mercy. This might seem inconsistent with later biblical instructions that promote peace and warn against personal vengeance, like in the teachings of Jesus or the instruction to leave vengeance to God.
Paradox #2
Some people point out that the mention of weapons and violence in this verse seems unexpected so early in human history, especially considering there were only a few generations since Adam and Eve. It raises questions about how quickly society and technology developed to include concepts of revenge and advanced tools.
Paradox #3
Genesis 4:23 involves Lamech speaking about killing a man for wounding him. The contradiction or conflict might lie in the escalation of violence and revenge, contrasting with later biblical teachings that promote forgiveness and non-violence, such as in the teachings of Jesus about turning the other cheek. This highlights a tension between the acceptance of personal vengeance in earlier texts and the later message of mercy and forgiveness.