Contradictions and Paradoxes in Isaiah 36:16

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Isaiah 36:16 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Isaiah 36:16. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Isaiah, the king of Assyria is telling the people not to listen to their leader, Hezekiah. Instead, he wants them to make peace with him and promises they will have plenty of their own food and water if they do.

Isaiah 36:16: Hearken not to Hezekiah: for thus saith the king of Assyria, Make [an agreement] with me [by] a present, and come out to me: and eat ye every one of his vine, and every one of his fig tree, and drink ye every one the waters of his own cistern; [Make...: or, Seek my favour by a present: Heb. Make with me a blessing]

Contradiction with Jeremiah 17:5

This verse contradicts Isaiah 36:16 by warning against trusting in human leaders for strength and salvation.

Jeremiah 17:5: Thus saith the LORD; Cursed [be] the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD.

Contradiction with Proverbs 3:5-6

These verses contradict by advising trust in the Lord rather than in human persuasion or understanding.

Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

Contradiction with Psalm 118:8-9

This passage suggests it is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man or princes, contrasting with the reliance on the king of Assyria's promises in Isaiah 36:16.

Psalm 118:8-9: [It is] better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.

Contradiction with Isaiah 31:1

This verse cautions against seeking help from other nations or their kings rather than relying on God, contradicting Isaiah 36:16’s encouragement to rely on an earthly king.

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!

Paradox #1

Isaiah 36:16 is part of a speech from the Assyrian king's representative, trying to persuade the people of Jerusalem to surrender by promising them security and prosperity. The doctrinal conflict could arise because these promises are from an enemy of God's people and are intended to undermine their faith in God's protection and plans. Trusting these promises would contradict the belief in relying on God rather than on foreign powers or their assurances.

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