Contradiction with Exodus 20:13
This verse commands "Thou shalt not kill," which contradicts Joshua 10:26 where Joshua kills the captured kings.
Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
This verse instructs to love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, contrasting Joshua's actions of executing enemies.
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 Proverbs 25:21
Advises to feed your enemy if he is hungry, which opposes the act of executing them as seen in Joshua 10:26.
Proverbs 25:21: If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:
Contradiction with Romans 12:17
"Recompense to no man evil for evil" contradicts Joshua's act of executing enemy kings as a form of retribution.
Romans 12:17: Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
Contradiction with Romans 12:19
Encourages believers not to take vengeance, leaving it to God, in contrast to the executions carried out by Joshua in 10:26.
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.
Paradox #1
Joshua 10:26 could be seen as conflicting with the broader biblical theme of mercy and forgiveness. While much of the Bible emphasizes love, forgiveness, and turning the other cheek, this verse describes an act of execution and display of power. This could be perceived as inconsistent with the idea of showing mercy, which is highlighted in many other parts of the Bible.
Paradox #2
Joshua 10:26 could be seen as inconsistent with messages in the Bible that promote forgiveness and love for enemies, such as teachings found in the New Testament, particularly in the teachings of Jesus about loving others and turning the other cheek. This might appear contradictory to some people because the verse describes an act of violence, while other parts of the Bible emphasize mercy and compassion.
Paradox #3
Some people see a contradiction in this verse because it describes a harsh action by Joshua, which seems inconsistent with the image of a merciful God. Others note the difference in ethical and cultural values between ancient times and modern perspectives, which can lead to misunderstandings or conflicts when interpreting such actions today.
Paradox #4
The potential scientific conflict could relate to the historicity and ethical implications of the events described. Scientifically, there is limited archaeological evidence to support the large-scale battles and miraculous events described in some biblical accounts. Ethically, the verse describes actions that might be considered morally problematic today.
Paradox #5
This verse might present a contradiction because it involves the act of killing leaders, which can conflict with moral teachings about mercy, forgiveness, and the sanctity of life. This might raise questions about the justification of violence and how it aligns with commandments against killing.