Contradiction with Numbers 14:45
In this verse, the Amalekites and Canaanites defeat the Israelites and pursue them, implying they suffered harm and loss in battle.
Numbers 14:45: Then the Amalekites came down, and the Canaanites which dwelt in that hill, and smote them, and discomfited them, [even] unto Hormah.
Contradiction with Judges 20:21
Here, the Benjamites smite the Israelites, causing significant casualties, contradicting the idea of the Israelites being unharmed.
Judges 20:21: And the children of Benjamin came forth out of Gibeah, and destroyed down to the ground of the Israelites that day twenty and two thousand men.
Contradiction with 1 Samuel 31:1
The Philistines fight against Israel and kill many, including King Saul, showing a contrast to not suffering harm.
1 Samuel 31:1: Now the Philistines fought against Israel: and the men of Israel fled from before the Philistines, and fell down slain in mount Gilboa. [slain: or, wounded]
Contradiction with 1 Chronicles 10:1
Similar to 1 Samuel 31:1, this describes the Philistines killing many Israelites, highlighting a contradiction.
1 Chronicles 10:1: Now the Philistines fought against Israel; and the men of Israel fled from before the Philistines, and fell down slain in mount Gilboa. [slain: or, wounded]
Contradiction with 2 Chronicles 28:5
The Lord delivers the Israelites into the hands of the king of Syria, resulting in a significant defeat and loss.
2 Chronicles 28:5: Wherefore the LORD his God delivered him into the hand of the king of Syria; and they smote him, and carried away a great multitude of them captives, and brought [them] to Damascus. And he was also delivered into the hand of the king of Israel, who smote him with a great slaughter. [Damascus: Heb. Darmesek]
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in this verse could be the idea of achieving victory through violence or warfare, which can conflict with the broader teaching of peace and love for enemies found elsewhere in religious texts. This presents a tension between actions depicted in historical contexts and ethical teachings promoting non-violence.