Contradiction with Exodus 20:4-5
These verses contradict Jeremiah 10:4 by prohibiting the making and worship of graven images or idols, while Jeremiah 10:4 describes the process of creating an idol without explicitly condemning it.
Exodus 20:4-5: Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness [of any thing] that [is] in heaven above, or that [is] in the earth beneath, or that [is] in the water under the earth:
Contradiction with Isaiah 46:7
This verse shows the futility of idols, contrasting with Jeremiah 10:4, which describes making an idol but doesn't talk about its impotence.
Isaiah 46:7: They bear him upon the shoulder, they carry him, and set him in his place, and he standeth; from his place shall he not remove: yea, [one] shall cry unto him, yet can he not answer, nor save him out of his trouble.
Contradiction with Psalm 135:15-17
These verses declare that idols are lifeless, contrasting with Jeremiah 10:4’s depiction of decorating and setting up an idol, implying it might hold value.
Psalm 135:15-17: The idols of the heathen [are] silver and gold, the work of men's hands.
Contradiction with Habakkuk 2:18-19
Criticizes those who trust in idols and images, conflicting with Jeremiah 10:4 where the idols are created and decorated as if valuable.
Habakkuk 2:18-19: What profiteth the graven image that the maker thereof hath graven it; the molten image, and a teacher of lies, that the maker of his work trusteth therein, to make dumb idols? [maker of...: Heb. fashioner of his fashion]
Contradiction with Leviticus 19:4
This verse directly commands against turning to idols, which contrasts with the description of preparing an idol in Jeremiah 10:4.
Leviticus 19:4: Turn ye not unto idols, nor make to yourselves molten gods: I [am] the LORD your God.
Paradox #1
Jeremiah 10:4 could be seen as having a contradiction or inconsistency with practices that involve decorating trees as part of religious or cultural traditions. Some people see it as conflicting with the practice of putting up Christmas trees, as they interpret the verse as speaking against decorating trees. However, others argue that the context of the verse describes a completely different practice related to idol worship rather than a holiday tradition.
Paradox #2
Some people think that the description of decorating trees in Jeremiah 10:4 might relate to Christmas trees. However, historically, Christmas trees became popular much later, so this connection is debated. Others see it as a description of idol-making, not about Christmas at all, leading to different interpretations.