Contradiction with Deuteronomy 14:26
This verse describes the Israelites being instructed to use their money to buy whatever their soul desires, including wine or strong drink, which contradicts Jeremiah 35:6 where the Rechabites abstain from wine.
Deuteronomy 14:26: And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household, [desireth: Heb. asketh of thee]
Contradiction with Proverbs 31:6
This verse suggests giving strong drink to those who are perishing and wine to those in distress, which contrasts with the Rechabites' vow in Jeremiah 35:6 to abstain from wine altogether.
Proverbs 31:6: Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts. [of...: Heb. bitter of soul]
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 5:23
This verse advises using a little wine for stomach ailments, differing from the Rechabites' complete abstinence from wine as stated in Jeremiah 35:6.
1 Timothy 5:23: Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities.
Paradox #1
The contradiction or inconsistency might arise because this verse praises the Rekabites for obeying their ancestor's command not to drink wine, which seems to be endorsed by God. However, in other parts of the Bible, such as in the New Testament, wine consumption is not prohibited; Jesus himself drank wine and even turned water into wine. This raises questions about how rules and commandments are applied and interpreted over time.
Paradox #2
Jeremiah 35:6 mentions obedience to a command to abstain from drinking wine. A potential contradiction or conflict might arise when considering the broader biblical context that includes instances where wine is used in religious celebrations or Jesus turning water into wine. This could lead to questions about why abstinence from wine is emphasized in one instance while its use is accepted or even celebrated in others.