Contradictions and Paradoxes in Joshua 10:35

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Joshua 10:35 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Joshua 10:35. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to many Christian interpretations, this verse shows how Joshua followed God's commands to take over the land. It is seen as part of God's plan to give the Israelites a home, even though it involved battles and was hard.

Joshua 10:35: And they took it on that day, and smote it with the edge of the sword, and all the souls that [were] therein he utterly destroyed that day, according to all that he had done to Lachish.

Contradiction with Exodus 20:13

Joshua 10:35 describes destruction and killing, while Exodus 20:13 commands "Thou shalt not kill."

Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

Joshua 10:35 depicts conquering, whereas Matthew 5:44 teaches to love your enemies and bless those who curse 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 12:17

Joshua 10:35 involves destruction in response to conflict, but Romans 12:17 advises against repaying evil for evil.

Romans 12:17: Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

Contradiction with Isaiah 2:4

Joshua 10:35 presents a scene of war, yet Isaiah 2:4 speaks of turning swords into plowshares and not learning war anymore.

Isaiah 2:4: And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. [pruninghooks: or, scythes]

Contradiction with James 5:9

Joshua 10:35 involves judgment and punishment, whereas James 5:9 warns against grudge and judgment, highlighting "the judge standeth before the door."

James 5:9: Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door. [Grudge not: or, Groan, or, Grieve not]

Paradox #1

The contradiction in Joshua 10:35 could be the conflict between the act of complete destruction and the broader teachings of compassion and mercy found in other parts of the Bible. Destroying an entire city, including non-combatants, may seem inconsistent with the idea of loving one's neighbor or showing mercy.

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