Contradictions and Paradoxes in Joshua 1:6

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Joshua 1:6 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Joshua 1:6. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the book of Joshua, God is telling Joshua to be brave and strong because he will help the people get the special land that He promised to their ancestors. Joshua needs to trust God to guide him and the people to this new home.

Joshua 1:6: Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them. [unto this...: or, thou shalt cause this people to inherit the land, etc]

Contradiction with Jeremiah 10:23

This verse states that a man’s way is not in himself, contradicting the idea of individual strength and courage in Joshua 1:6.

Jeremiah 10:23: O LORD, I know that the way of man [is] not in himself: [it is] not in man that walketh to direct his steps.

Contradiction with Proverbs 3:5

Advises to trust in the Lord with all your heart and not to lean on your own understanding, contrasting with Joshua 1:6's emphasis on personal strength and courage.

Proverbs 3:5: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

Contradiction with Psalm 46:10

Encourages being still and knowing God is in control, which contrasts with the active command to be strong and courageous in Joshua 1:6.

Psalm 46:10: Be still, and know that I [am] God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.

Contradiction with Isaiah 41:10

Emphasizes God’s support and strength, suggesting reliance on God rather than self-sourced courage, which differs from the self-empowerment tone of Joshua 1:6.

Isaiah 41:10: Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 12:9

Highlights God’s power in human weakness, which can be seen as contradicting the directive to be strong in Joshua 1:6.

2 Corinthians 12:9: And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Contradiction with Zechariah 4:6

Declares things are accomplished not by might nor by power but by God’s spirit, challenging the notion of personal strength in Joshua 1:6.

Zechariah 4:6: Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This [is] the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. [might: or, army]
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