Contradiction with Matthew 5:32
This verse states that whoever divorces his wife, except for the cause of fornication, causes her to commit adultery, which suggests there may be a justifiable reason for remarriage, while Jeremiah 3:1 suggests return or reconciliation is undesirable if the wife is defiled.
Matthew 5:32: But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.
Contradiction with Mark 10:9
This verse emphasizes not separating what God has joined together, suggesting permanence in marriage, which could be seen as contradicting the implication in Jeremiah 3:1 that returning is not feasible.
Mark 10:9: What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
Contradiction with Hosea 3:1
This verse depicts God commanding Hosea to love an adulterous woman as an example of God's love for Israel, which contradicts the implication that returning to such a woman is undesirable in Jeremiah 3:1.
Hosea 3:1: Then said the LORD unto me, Go yet, love a woman beloved of [her] friend, yet an adulteress, according to the love of the LORD toward the children of Israel, who look to other gods, and love flagons of wine. [of wine: Heb. of grapes]
Contradiction with Malachi 2:16
This verse highlights God's hatred for divorce, promoting the idea of marital fidelity and reconciliation, differing from the perspective in Jeremiah 3:1 on returning to a defiled wife.
Malachi 2:16: For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for [one] covereth violence with his garment, saith the LORD of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously. [that he...: or, if he hate her, put her away] [putting...: Heb. to put away]
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 7:11
This verse encourages reconciliation between separated spouses, suggesting a potential for return that contradicts the negative view of returning in Jeremiah 3:1.
1 Corinthians 7:11: But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to [her] husband: and let not the husband put away [his] wife.
Paradox #1
Jeremiah 3:1 might seem to contradict the message of forgiveness and reconciliation found elsewhere in the Bible. While it discusses a situation that seems to reject the possibility of return and forgiveness after betrayal, other parts of the Bible emphasize God's willingness to forgive and restore relationships, even after wrongdoing. This could create an inconsistency regarding the nature of forgiveness.
Paradox #2
Jeremiah 3:1 might appear to contradict or be inconsistent with other biblical teachings on marriage and divorce. In this verse, the imagery of a divorced wife returning to her first husband after being with another man might seem at odds with laws in Deuteronomy that forbid this action. However, the context in Jeremiah is metaphorical, illustrating Israel's unfaithfulness to God rather than addressing literal marriage laws, which may resolve the apparent conflict.
Paradox #3
The verse from Jeremiah 3:1 touches on themes of faithfulness and relationships, often drawing a parallel with marriage. Historically, the specific rules around divorce and remarriage in ancient Israel, as described in other parts of the Bible, might seem contradictory. In Deuteronomy, for example, there are laws about divorce and the impossibility of returning to a previous spouse after remarriage. This could appear inconsistent with later prophetic messages about redemption and forgiveness. The tension arises between strict legal prescriptions and the broader spiritual messages of reconciliation and renewal found throughout the biblical narrative.
Paradox #4
The contradiction or inconsistency in Jeremiah 3:1 can arise from the fact that it addresses themes of divorce and infidelity, suggesting forgiveness and reconciliation despite previous wrongdoing. Some might see a conflict in promoting forgiveness in this context when other parts of religious or moral teachings might emphasize the seriousness of betrayal or unfaithfulness. Additionally, there might be perceived inconsistencies when compared to other biblical laws that have stricter stances on relationships and divorce.