Contradictions and Paradoxes in Isaiah 66:3

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Isaiah 66:3 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Isaiah 66:3. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Isaiah, God is unhappy with people who do bad things and then try to make up for it by offering sacrifices. He wants people to follow His ways and do good things from their hearts.

Isaiah 66:3: He that killeth an ox [is as if] he slew a man; he that sacrificeth a lamb, [as if] he cut off a dog's neck; he that offereth an oblation, [as if he offered] swine's blood; he that burneth incense, [as if] he blessed an idol. Yea, they have chosen their own ways, and their soul delighteth in their abominations. [lamb: or, kid] [burneth: Heb. maketh a memorial of]

Contradiction with Proverbs 21:3

This verse emphasizes righteousness and justice as more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice, contrasting with the critiqued sacrificial practices in Isaiah 66:3.

Proverbs 21:3: To do justice and judgment [is] more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.

Contradiction with Hosea 6:6

This verse values mercy over sacrifice, contradicting the misguided sacrificial practices in Isaiah 66:3.

Hosea 6:6: For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.

Contradiction with 1 Samuel 15:22

Highlights obedience over sacrifice, opposing the ineffective rituals mentioned in Isaiah 66:3.

1 Samuel 15:22: And Samuel said, Hath the LORD [as great] delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey [is] better than sacrifice, [and] to hearken than the fat of rams.

Contradiction with Psalm 51:16-17

Prioritizes a contrite spirit over sacrifices, differing from the insincere offerings in Isaiah 66:3.

Psalm 51:16-17: For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give [it]: thou delightest not in burnt offering. [else...: or, that I should]

Contradiction with Matthew 9:13

Emphasizes mercy rather than sacrifice, countering the unmerciful acts in Isaiah 66:3.

Matthew 9:13: But go ye and learn what [that] meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

Paradox #1

Isaiah 66:3 might appear to contain a contradiction or inconsistency because it criticizes people performing rituals or sacrifices, actions that are elsewhere in the Bible described as important parts of worship. The verse suggests these rituals are offensive when done with the wrong heart or intention, highlighting a tension between outward religious acts and the inward sincerity expected by God. This can seem inconsistent if taken without understanding the broader context of emphasizing the importance of genuine devotion over mere ritual compliance.

Paradox #2

The potential contradiction or conflict could arise from interpreting the actions described in this verse as acceptable or endorsed by God, despite them being compared to sinful or abominable practices. This could create confusion with other biblical teachings that emphasize the importance of pure and sincere worship, thereby potentially sending mixed messages about what is considered proper worship and obedience to God.

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