Contradictions and Paradoxes in Joshua 1:14

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Joshua 1:14 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Joshua 1:14. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the book of Joshua, God asked the strong men to go help their friends in a new land while their families and animals stayed safe at home. They were to be brave and ready, like strong soldiers, to help others get settled.

Joshua 1:14: Your wives, your little ones, and your cattle, shall remain in the land which Moses gave you on this side Jordan; but ye shall pass before your brethren armed, all the mighty men of valour, and help them; [armed: Heb. marshalled by five]

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 20:8

Joshua 1:14 commands all mighty men of valor to fight, yet Deuteronomy 20:8 allows those afraid to return home and not fight.

Deuteronomy 20:8: And the officers shall speak further unto the people, and they shall say, What man [is there that is] fearful and fainthearted? let him go and return unto his house, lest his brethren's heart faint as well as his heart. [faint: Heb. melt]

Contradiction with Matthew 5:39

Joshua 1:14 encourages armed assistance in battle, whereas Matthew 5:39 suggests turning the other cheek and not resisting evil with violence.

Matthew 5:39: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

Contradiction with Isaiah 2:4

Joshua 1:14 speaks of preparing for battle, but Isaiah 2:4 envisions a time when nations will not lift swords and will no longer learn war.

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 Exodus 14:14

Joshua 1:14 implies the people should fight alongside their brethren, yet Exodus 14:14 suggests that the Lord will fight for them and they need only to be still.

Exodus 14:14: The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.

Contradiction with Romans 12:17-19

While Joshua 1:14 involves preparation for armed conflict, Romans 12:17-19 advocates for not repaying evil for evil and leaving vengeance to God.

Romans 12:17-19: Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

Paradox #1

The contradiction or conflict in Joshua 1:14 can arise from the idea of leaving families behind while the warriors go to fight. This might seem inconsistent with the value of protecting and staying with one's family. It can be seen as conflicting with the moral duty to care for and support one's family members directly.

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