Contradictions and Paradoxes in Joshua 14:7

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Joshua 14:7 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Joshua 14:7. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Joshua, he was 40 years old when Moses asked him to go explore a new land. Joshua came back and told Moses what he truly believed about the land.

Joshua 14:7: Forty years old [was] I when Moses the servant of the LORD sent me from Kadeshbarnea to espy out the land; and I brought him word again as [it was] in mine heart.

Contradiction with Numbers 13:1-2

Contradicts Joshua 14:7 as it shows God commanding Moses to send spies, whereas Joshua 14:7 suggests that Caleb went by personal desire.

Numbers 13:1-2: And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 1:22

Suggests the idea to send spies came from the people, not from Moses as Joshua 14:7 implies.

Deuteronomy 1:22: And ye came near unto me every one of you, and said, We will send men before us, and they shall search us out the land, and bring us word again by what way we must go up, and into what cities we shall come.

Contradiction with Numbers 13:30-31

Contradicts Joshua 14:7 because Caleb claims all spies (except him and Joshua) were afraid, whereas this verse shows Caleb confidently declaring the land conquerable.

Numbers 13:30-31: And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it.

Contradiction with Numbers 14:6-9

Although not directly contradicting, the emphasis in this passage is on both Joshua and Caleb’s faith, whereas Joshua 14:7 highlights Caleb's specific role and perspective.

Numbers 14:6-9: And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, [which were] of them that searched the land, rent their clothes:

Contradiction with Numbers 14:24

Indicates Caleb had a different spirit from the rest but does not directly mention the event described specifically in Joshua 14:7, focusing instead on his wholehearted follow-through.

Numbers 14:24: But my servant Caleb, because he had another spirit with him, and hath followed me fully, him will I bring into the land whereinto he went; and his seed shall possess it.
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