Contradiction with Jeremiah 42:18
This verse portrays God's wrath leading to Jerusalem's destruction, contrasting with Hosea 11:5, where returning to Egypt is mentioned instead of Assyrian oppression.
Jeremiah 42:18: For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; As mine anger and my fury hath been poured forth upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem; so shall my fury be poured forth upon you, when ye shall enter into Egypt: and ye shall be an execration, and an astonishment, and a curse, and a reproach; and ye shall see this place no more.
Contradiction with Ezekiel 29:16
This verse declares that Israel will no longer rely on Egypt, opposing the idea in Hosea 11:5 of returning to Egypt.
Ezekiel 29:16: And it shall be no more the confidence of the house of Israel, which bringeth [their] iniquity to remembrance, when they shall look after them: but they shall know that I [am] the Lord GOD.
Contradiction with Isaiah 31:1
Advises against returning to or relying on Egypt, denying the possibility presented in Hosea 11:5.
Isaiah 31:1: Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help; and stay on horses, and trust in chariots, because [they are] many; and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the LORD!
Contradiction with Isaiah 30:2
Warns against seeking help from Egypt, contrasting with the suggestion of returning in Hosea 11:5.
Isaiah 30:2: That walk to go down into Egypt, and have not asked at my mouth; to strengthen themselves in the strength of Pharaoh, and to trust in the shadow of Egypt!
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 17:16
Commands not to go back to Egypt, at odds with the potential return mentioned in Hosea 11:5.
Deuteronomy 17:16: But he shall not multiply horses to himself, nor cause the people to return to Egypt, to the end that he should multiply horses: forasmuch as the LORD hath said unto you, Ye shall henceforth return no more that way.
Paradox #1
Hosea 11:5 could seem contradictory because it suggests a consequence for Israel that seems contradictory to God's promise of deliverance elsewhere in the Bible. While this verse indicates punishment and exile due to disobedience, other passages promise protection and redemption. This can create tension between themes of judgment and mercy.
Paradox #2
Hosea 11:5 might seem inconsistent because it mentions Israel not returning to Egypt, but in other parts of the Bible, there are references suggesting a return or the idea of Egypt as a place of exile or oppression. This could create confusion about the historical and prophetic context.
Paradox #3
Hosea 11:5 discusses God's intention regarding the punishment of Israel, despite their disobedience. A potential contradiction could be the tension between justice and mercy. On one hand, God is described as just and must punish sin; on the other hand, God is also portrayed as loving and merciful, desiring the well-being of His people. Balancing these two attributes can be seen as a moral conflict because it raises questions about how God can be both fully just and fully merciful at the same time.