Contradiction with Exodus 20:24
While Hosea 8:11 criticizes Israel for making many altars for sin, Exodus 20:24 sets a commandment for building altars for sacrifices, indicating altars are intended for worship, not a cause for sin.
Exodus 20:24: An altar of earth thou shalt make unto me, and shalt sacrifice thereon thy burnt offerings, and thy peace offerings, thy sheep, and thine oxen: in all places where I record my name I will come unto thee, and I will bless thee.
Contradiction with Hebrews 13:10
Hosea 8:11 highlights Israel's altars as a source of sin, whereas Hebrews 13:10 speaks of a spiritual altar that believers have access to, suggesting a positive function of an altar.
Hebrews 13:10: We have an altar, whereof they have no right to eat which serve the tabernacle.
Paradox #1
Hosea 8:11 may present a historical inconsistency related to the practices of worship. It criticizes the multiple altars in Israel, suggesting a deviation from centralized worship, which contradicts the idea found in other parts of the Bible where worship should be centralized in one place, such as Jerusalem. This reflects differing historical views or practices of worship within ancient Israel.
Paradox #2
Hosea 8:11 highlights the issue of people building many altars for sin, which can be seen as inconsistent when considering the Bible's broader message against idolatry and the importance of worshipping only one God. The conflict arises from the act of creating multiple places of worship when there is a clear directive to follow one true God. This can lead to moral confusion about obedience and faithfulness to God's instructions.