Contradiction with Matthew 28:1
John 19:31 mentions the preparation for the Sabbath as a day of rest, while Matthew 28:1 refers to the end of the Sabbath.
Matthew 28:1: In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first [day] of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.
Contradiction with Exodus 20:8-10
John 19:31 describes the preparation for the Sabbath, implying a special Sabbath (high day), while Exodus 20:8-10 mentions the regular observance of the seventh day as the Sabbath, highlighting a distinction between them.
Exodus 20:8-10: Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.
Contradiction with Mark 15:42-43
John 19:31 emphasizes the urgency due to the preparation for the Sabbath, while Mark 15:42-43 does not mention an impending special Sabbath, presenting it as an ordinary preparation day.
Mark 15:42-43: And now when the even was come, because it was the preparation, that is, the day before the sabbath,
Paradox #1
The contradiction or conflict in John 19:31 could arise from the concern for religious customs while simultaneously being involved in an act of execution. The act of ensuring that bodies were not left on the cross during the Sabbath could seem inconsistent with the severity and moral implications of crucifixion itself. This might highlight a tension between upholding religious observances and the ethics of compassion and justice.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in John 19:31 arises from the way it references the timing of events related to Jesus' crucifixion and the Sabbath. The verse suggests that the day following the crucifixion was a "special Sabbath," raising questions about whether the crucifixion occurred before a regular weekly Sabbath or a high Sabbath during a festival. This can create confusion when reconciling the timelines of the crucifixion and resurrection across different Gospel accounts.