Contradictions and Paradoxes in Joshua 20:6

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Joshua 20:6 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Joshua 20:6. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the book of Joshua, if someone accidentally hurts another person, they can stay in a safe city until it’s time for a meeting to decide what happened, and until the special leader called the high priest passes away. After that, they can go back home to their own city and house.

Joshua 20:6: And he shall dwell in that city, until he stand before the congregation for judgment, [and] until the death of the high priest that shall be in those days: then shall the slayer return, and come unto his own city, and unto his own house, unto the city from whence he fled.

Contradiction with Exodus 21:14

This verse states that if a man acts with premeditation and kills another, he is to be taken from the altar and put to death, contradicting the refuge provided in Joshua 20:6.

Exodus 21:14: But if a man come presumptuously upon his neighbour, to slay him with guile; thou shalt take him from mine altar, that he may die.

Contradiction with Numbers 35:31

This verse insists that no satisfaction or ransom should be accepted for the life of a murderer, contradicting the idea of safe refuge until trial described in Joshua 20:6.

Numbers 35:31: Moreover ye shall take no satisfaction for the life of a murderer, which [is] guilty of death: but he shall be surely put to death. [guilty...: Heb. faulty to die]

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 19:13

This verse commands that no pity should be shown to a murderer and that he should be purged from Israel, conflicting with the protection afforded in Joshua 20:6.

Deuteronomy 19:13: Thine eye shall not pity him, but thou shalt put away [the guilt of] innocent blood from Israel, that it may go well with thee.

Contradiction with Genesis 9:6

This verse decrees that whoever sheds man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed, contradicting the temporary refuge for the accused in Joshua 20:6.

Genesis 9:6: Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.

Contradiction with Romans 13:4

This verse describes civil authorities as God's servants who carry out wrath on wrongdoers, contrasting with the sanctuary and fair trial provision in Joshua 20:6.

Romans 13:4: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to [execute] wrath upon him that doeth evil.

Paradox #1

The contradiction or conflict in this context may arise from the idea of justice and accountability. The verse suggests that a person who has committed unintentional killing can stay in a city of refuge and later return home after the high priest dies, without facing further repercussions. This could be seen as inconsistent with the principle that actions have consequences, as it allows the person to avoid full accountability for a life lost, which might seem unfair to the victim's family seeking justice.

← Joshua 20:5
Share
Joshua 20:7 →
Disclaimer: The content provided at PolarBible.com is for educational purposes only. Readers have the full right to agree or disagree with the interpretations and conclusions presented. We take no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken based on the information shared as Polar Verses.