Contradiction with Joshua 11:20
Joshua 11:19 states no city made peace with Israel except the Hivites of Gibeon, but Joshua 11:20 suggests that it was the Lord's doing to harden their hearts to battle.
Joshua 11:20: For it was of the LORD to harden their hearts, that they should come against Israel in battle, that he might destroy them utterly, [and] that they might have no favour, but that he might destroy them, as the LORD commanded Moses.
Contradiction with Joshua 9:15
Joshua 11:19 claims no peace was made except with the Hivites of Gibeon, but Joshua 9:15 indicates Joshua made a peace treaty with Gibeonites before the battles.
Joshua 9:15: And Joshua made peace with them, and made a league with them, to let them live: and the princes of the congregation sware unto them.
Paradox #1
Joshua 11:19 might appear to conflict with earlier passages in the Bible where it states that certain cities made peace with the Israelites. In the context of broader biblical narratives, different parts may seem to suggest different accounts of how many cities or peoples did this. However, this can often be understood through historical or literary context, addressing why specific details may differ.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in this verse could arise from the theme of warfare and destruction commanded by God. It may conflict with the values of peace and compassion found in other parts of religious teachings. Such actions could be seen as inconsistent with the idea of a loving and merciful deity.