Contradiction with Genesis 1:31
This verse states that everything God made was "very good," which contradicts Isaiah 13:21's depiction of desolation and evil spirits inhabiting desolate places.
Genesis 1:31: And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, [it was] very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day. [And the evening...: Heb. And the evening was, and the morning was etc.]
Contradiction with Isaiah 11:6
This verse depicts harmony among animals and the restoration of peace, which contrasts with the wild and desolate imagery of Isaiah 13:21.
Isaiah 11:6: The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.
Paradox #1
Isaiah 13:21 discusses creatures that will live in desolate places. Some people see a contradiction because the creatures mentioned in different translations (such as owls, wild goats, or satyrs) may not naturally be found together or inhabit the same regions. Additionally, the imagery can be seen as symbolic rather than literal, which could lead to varied interpretations. Different translations and the mythical nature of some creatures can create inconsistencies in understanding.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in Isaiah 13:21 could be the reference to mythical creatures or entities, such as satyrs, which are not recognized in modern biology or zoology. Animals like these, which are part human and part goat, do not have a basis in scientific fact and have not been observed in the natural world.
Paradox #3
The verse describes a prophecy against a certain place, suggesting desolation where creatures like wild animals will dwell. The moral conflict could arise from the notion of divine destruction, where God's actions lead to suffering or ruin. It might seem contradictory for a benevolent God to willfully destroy or cause desolation, which challenges some people's understanding of a loving deity.