Contradiction with Jeremiah 31:31-33
These verses foretell a new covenant where God will write the law on people's hearts, contrasting the physical action of circumcision of the heart in Jeremiah 4:4.
Jeremiah 31:31-33: Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah:
Contradiction with Ezekiel 36:26-27
God promises to give a new heart and spirit, transforming internally, which contrasts with the call for individuals to circumcise their own hearts in Jeremiah 4:4.
Ezekiel 36:26-27: A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.
Contradiction with Romans 2:29
Emphasizes that true circumcision is of the heart, not by human effort but by the Spirit, which contrasts the implied self-action in Jeremiah 4:4.
Romans 2:29: But he [is] a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision [is that] of the heart, in the spirit, [and] not in the letter; whose praise [is] not of men, but of God.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 30:6
God declares He will circumcise the hearts of His people, ensuring they love Him, which contradicts the self-action commanded in Jeremiah 4:4.
Deuteronomy 30:6: And the LORD thy God will circumcise thine heart, and the heart of thy seed, to love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, that thou mayest live.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in Jeremiah 4:4 could lie in the idea of forced commitment or obligation to spiritual practices. It suggests a deep commitment is necessary, which might conflict with the concept of free will or voluntary faith in spiritual matters. It may appear inconsistent if seen as encouraging actions out of obligation rather than personal belief and choice.