Contradiction with Exodus 21:12
This verse states that anyone who smites a man so that he dies shall be put to death, contradicting the idea of a refuge provided for unintentional killers.
Exodus 21:12: He that smiteth a man, so that he die, shall be surely put to death.
Contradiction with Numbers 35:16
This verse describes that if a person strikes someone with an iron tool and kills them, they are considered a murderer and should be put to death, which contrasts with Joshua 20:9's provision for refuge.
Numbers 35:16: And if he smite him with an instrument of iron, so that he die, he [is] a murderer: the murderer shall surely be put to death.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 19:11-12
These verses assert that if someone kills another person with intent, they cannot seek refuge in a city of refuge, emphasizing a distinction that Joshua 20:9 does not address directly.
Deuteronomy 19:11-12: But if any man hate his neighbour, and lie in wait for him, and rise up against him, and smite him mortally that he die, and fleeth into one of these cities: [mortally: Heb. in life]
Contradiction with Leviticus 24:17
This verse straightforwardly states that anyone who kills another human being shall surely be put to death, contrasting the provision of cities of refuge for unintentional killings in Joshua 20:9.
Leviticus 24:17: And he that killeth any man shall surely be put to death. [killeth...: Heb. smiteth the life of a man]
Paradox #1
The contradiction or conflict in Joshua 20:9 might involve the idea of offering refuge to those who have accidentally killed someone. While it provides protection and a fair trial, it could conflict with the desire for immediate justice or vengeance by the victim's family, leading to a tension between mercy and justice.