Contradictions and Paradoxes in Genesis 4:26

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Genesis 4:26 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Genesis 4:26. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Moses, who wrote the book of Genesis, this verse tells us about Seth having a son named Enos. It also teaches that during this time, people began to worship and pray to God.

Genesis 4:26: And to Seth, to him also there was born a son; and he called his name Enos: then began men to call upon the name of the LORD. [Enos: Heb. Enosh] [to call...: or, to call themselves by the name of the Lord]

Contradiction with Exodus 20:3

Contradicts because Genesis 4:26 implies the beginning of calling upon the Lord, whereas Exodus emphasizes exclusive worship, suggesting a continuity rather than a start.

Exodus 20:3: Thou shalt have no other gods before me.

Contradiction with 1 Samuel 12:21

Implication in Genesis 4:26 of divine calling is contradicted by warnings against vain practices, suggesting the knowledge of God was persistent.

1 Samuel 12:21: And turn ye not aside: for [then should ye go] after vain [things], which cannot profit nor deliver; for they [are] vain.

Contradiction with Isaiah 45:5

While Genesis 4:26 talks about calling on God, this verse emphasizes the exclusivity of God, suggesting God was always known, hence contradicting the verse's implication of a new practice.

Isaiah 45:5: I [am] the LORD, and [there is] none else, [there is] no God beside me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known me:

Contradiction with Romans 1:20

Contradicts by stating God's attributes have been evident since creation, not starting in Enos’ time.

Romans 1:20: For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, [even] his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: [so...: or, that they may be]

Contradiction with Acts 17:27-28

Paul suggests God was always accessible, opposing Genesis 4:26's suggestion of a beginning in seeking God.

Acts 17:27-28: That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:

Paradox #1

The contradiction, inconsistency, or conflict in Genesis 4:26 could arise from the interpretation of when people began to "call upon the name of the Lord." Some might see a contradiction in the idea that people started worshiping God only at this point, considering earlier interactions between God and individuals like Adam and Eve or Cain. However, interpretations vary, and some view this verse as highlighting a new level or form of organized worship rather than the very first instance of worship itself.

Paradox #2

Some people see a contradiction in this verse because it mentions the calling on the name of the Lord, suggesting a form of worship or recognition of God. However, earlier parts of Genesis talk about Adam and Eve already having a relationship with God. This raises a question about why calling on God's name is only being mentioned at this point, as it might suggest a sudden change or new development in human interactions with God that doesn't align smoothly with the previous narrative.

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