Job 19:8 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to the author of the Book of Job, Job feels like God has put big walls around him so he can't go where he wants, and it feels very dark and hard to see where he's going. He is sad and confused because he doesn't understand why these difficult things are happening to him.

Contradiction with Psalm 27:1

Job 19:8 speaks of being hedged in darkness, whereas Psalm 27:1 states that the Lord is light and salvation, implying guidance and clarity instead of obstruction.

Psalm 27:1: [[A Psalm] of David.] The LORD [is] my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD [is] the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

Contradiction with Jeremiah 29:11

Job 19:8 describes feeling trapped, but Jeremiah 29:11 expresses God's plan for a hopeful future, not hindrance.

Jeremiah 29:11: For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. [expected...: Heb. end and expectation]

Contradiction with Isaiah 42:16

In contrast to Job 19:8's feeling of being enclosed, Isaiah 42:16 promises God’s guidance through darkness and making obstacles smooth.

Isaiah 42:16: And I will bring the blind by a way [that] they knew not; I will lead them in paths [that] they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them. [straight: Heb. into straightness]

Contradiction with Proverbs 3:6

While Job 19:8 mentions blocked paths, Proverbs 3:6 assures that acknowledging God will direct and clear one's paths.

Proverbs 3:6: In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Contradiction with John 8:12

Job 19:8 depicts darkness, but John 8:12 promises that following Jesus means never walking in darkness.

John 8:12: Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

Contradiction with Psalm 119:105

Contradicting the darkness in Job 19:8, Psalm 119:105 describes God’s word as a light for the path.

Psalm 119:105: NUN. Thy word [is] a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. [lamp: or, candle]

Paradox #1

The contradiction or inconsistency could be seen in the feeling of being unjustly treated by God. Job believes that God has blocked his path and surrounded him with darkness, despite Job's righteousness. This presents a conflict between the belief in a just and fair God and the personal experience of suffering and feeling abandoned without cause.