Contradictions and Paradoxes in Jonah 1:3

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Jonah 1:3 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Jonah 1:3. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the book of Jonah, Jonah wanted to run away from God, so he tried to sail far away on a ship to a place called Tarshish. He thought he could hide from God, even though God asked him to do something special.

Jonah 1:3: But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD.

Contradiction with Proverbs 16:9

This verse states that a man's heart devises his way, but the Lord directs his steps, which contradicts Jonah 1:3 as Jonah tries to flee from God's direction.

Proverbs 16:9: A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.

Contradiction with Psalm 139:7-8

These verses emphasize God's omnipresence, contradicting Jonah's attempt to escape from God's presence.

Psalm 139:7-8: Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence?

Contradiction with Jeremiah 23:24

This verse indicates that no one can hide from God, contradicting Jonah's attempt to flee from His presence.

Jeremiah 23:24: Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the LORD. Do not I fill heaven and earth? saith the LORD.

Contradiction with Acts 5:39

This verse suggests that if an endeavor is of God, it cannot be overthrown; Jonah fleeing from God contradicts this by trying to thwart God's plan.

Acts 5:39: But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God.

Contradiction with Isaiah 55:8-9

These verses highlight God's higher ways and thoughts, which Jonah 1:3 contradicts by Jonah attempting to follow his own plan instead.

Isaiah 55:8-9: For my thoughts [are] not your thoughts, neither [are] your ways my ways, saith the LORD.

Contradiction with Proverbs 3:5-6

These verses advise trusting in the Lord and acknowledging Him in all ways, contrary to Jonah's decision to flee from God's command.

Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

Paradox #1

Jonah 1:3 mentions that Jonah travels to Joppa to find a ship headed for Tarshish. Some people point out that there's uncertainty about the exact location of Tarshish and whether it was a known destination during the time this story was set. This lack of concrete geographical information can be seen as a contradiction or inconsistency.

← Jonah 1:2
Share
Jonah 1:4 →
Disclaimer: The content provided at PolarBible.com is for educational purposes only. Readers have the full right to agree or disagree with the interpretations and conclusions presented. We take no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken based on the information shared as Polar Verses.