Contradiction with Isaiah 55:13
This verse promises that the thornbush and brier will be replaced by the cypress and myrtle, indicating restoration and fertility, which contradicts the desolation promised in Isaiah 14:23.
Isaiah 55:13: Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the LORD for a name, for an everlasting sign [that] shall not be cut off.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 31:28
This verse refers to God building and planting, contrasting the destruction and devastation mentioned in Isaiah 14:23.
Jeremiah 31:28: And it shall come to pass, [that] like as I have watched over them, to pluck up, and to break down, and to throw down, and to destroy, and to afflict; so will I watch over them, to build, and to plant, saith the LORD.
Contradiction with Ezekiel 36:35
This verse speaks of the land becoming like the Garden of Eden, contradicting the imagery of desolation and uninhabitability in Isaiah 14:23.
Ezekiel 36:35: And they shall say, This land that was desolate is become like the garden of Eden; and the waste and desolate and ruined cities [are become] fenced, [and] are inhabited.
Contradiction with Revelation 22:2
Describes a river and tree of life bringing healing to nations, which opposes the idea of destruction and wasteland in Isaiah 14:23.
Revelation 22:2: In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, [was there] the tree of life, which bare twelve [manner of] fruits, [and] yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree [were] for the healing of the nations.
Contradiction with Isaiah 35:1
Promises that the wilderness and solitary place shall be glad, contrasting with the scene of desolation described in Isaiah 14:23.
Isaiah 35:1: The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.
Paradox #1
Isaiah 14:23 talks about God’s judgment on Babylon, referring to its destruction. Some people might see a contradiction if they compare this to other Bible verses where God is described as loving and merciful. The conflict arises because questions emerge about how a loving God can also bring about destruction. However, many theologians explain that God's justice and righteousness are also part of His nature, and such acts are seen as justice against sin and wrongdoing.
Paradox #2
Isaiah 14:23 talks about the destruction of Babylon. A contradiction or inconsistency might be that Babylon continued to exist and play a significant role in history after the time period when this prophecy was given. This might lead some to question the timing or accuracy of the prophecy as it seemed Babylon was not completely eradicated as described during those eras.
Paradox #3
Isaiah 14:23 predicts destruction for a city, which might conflict with ideas of forgiveness and mercy. Some might find it inconsistent with the notion of a loving and forgiving God, as it focuses on punishment and desolation instead of redemption and compassion.