Contradictions and Paradoxes in Joshua 10:19

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Joshua 10:19 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Joshua 10:19. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the book of Joshua, God is telling the people to be brave and chase their enemies so they can't get away, because God has already helped them win. It's like when you're playing a game, and someone says, "You can do it, I believe in you!"

Joshua 10:19: And stay ye not, [but] pursue after your enemies, and smite the hindmost of them; suffer them not to enter into their cities: for the LORD your God hath delivered them into your hand. [smite...: Heb. cut off the tail]

Contradiction with Exodus 20:13

Joshua 10:19 involves killing their enemies, whereas Exodus 20:13 states "Thou shalt not kill," which seemingly contradicts permission for warfare and killing.

Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

Joshua 10:19 describes pursuing and attacking enemies, in contrast, Matthew 5:44 teaches to "Love your enemies" and "pray for those who persecute you."

Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

Contradiction with Romans 12:19

Joshua 10:19 involves direct retribution against enemies, whereas Romans 12:19 advises "avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath."

Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

Contradiction with Proverbs 20:22

Joshua 10:19 involves seeking vengeance by pursuing enemies, while Proverbs 20:22 advises not to "say thou, I will recompense evil" but to wait on the Lord.

Proverbs 20:22: Say not thou, I will recompense evil; [but] wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.

Contradiction with Matthew 26:52

Joshua 10:19 describes using the sword for battle, but Matthew 26:52 warns "for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword."

Matthew 26:52: Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?

Contradiction with 1 Thessalonians 5:15

Joshua 10:19 is about actively pursuing enemies, whereas 1 Thessalonians 5:15 teaches to "See that none render evil for evil unto any man."

1 Thessalonians 5:15: See that none render evil for evil unto any [man]; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all [men].

Contradiction with Luke 6:27

Joshua 10:19 discusses destroying and battling foes, as opposed to Luke 6:27, which says "do good to them which hate you."

Luke 6:27: But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,

Paradox #1

This verse might raise questions about the morality of warfare and the treatment of enemies. It could be seen as inconsistent with teachings that emphasize mercy and forgiveness, leading to a conflict in understanding how to balance justice with compassion.

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