Contradiction with Hosea 6:6
This verse emphasizes desiring mercy rather than sacrifice, which contradicts God's acceptance of Abel's offering in Genesis 4:4.
Hosea 6:6: For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.
Contradiction with Matthew 9:13
Jesus emphasizes mercy over sacrifice, which contrasts with Abel's acceptable sacrifice in Genesis 4:4.
Matthew 9:13: But go ye and learn what [that] meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
Contradiction with 1 Samuel 15:22
This verse highlights obedience over sacrifice, contradicting the acceptance shown to Abel's offering in Genesis 4:4.
1 Samuel 15:22: And Samuel said, Hath the LORD [as great] delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey [is] better than sacrifice, [and] to hearken than the fat of rams.
Contradiction with Psalm 51:16-17
Prefers a contrite heart over burnt offerings, which contradicts God's favor towards Abel's offering in Genesis 4:4.
Psalm 51:16-17: For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give [it]: thou delightest not in burnt offering. [else...: or, that I should]
Contradiction with Isaiah 1:11
Questions the value of sacrifices, contrasting with the approval of Abel's offering in Genesis 4:4.
Isaiah 1:11: To what purpose [is] the multitude of your sacrifices unto me? saith the LORD: I am full of the burnt offerings of rams, and the fat of fed beasts; and I delight not in the blood of bullocks, or of lambs, or of he goats. [he goats: Heb. great he goats]
Paradox #1
Genesis 4:4 presents a potential theological conflict regarding the idea of divine favoritism. Abel's offering is accepted by God, while Cain's is not, which raises questions about why God preferred one offering over another without providing a clear explanation in the text. This could be seen as conflicting with the notion of a just and impartial God.
Paradox #2
Some people see a conflict regarding why Abel's offering was favored over Cain's when both made offerings to God. This has led to debates over whether it was the type of offering or the attitude of the giver that mattered.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or conflict in this verse could be seen in the idea of favoritism. By accepting one offering and not the other, it might seem that there's unfair treatment between the two brothers, which raises questions about fairness and justice.