Contradiction with Numbers 35:7
Joshua 21:31 lists the cities given to the Levites; however, Numbers 35:7 specifies a different total number for Levitical cities, leading to a contradiction in tally.
Numbers 35:7: [So] all the cities which ye shall give to the Levites [shall be] forty and eight cities: them [shall ye give] with their suburbs.
Contradiction with 1 Chronicles 6:56
The cities and their associated tribal allotments differ in detail between the Chronicles and the account in Joshua 21.
1 Chronicles 6:56: But the fields of the city, and the villages thereof, they gave to Caleb the son of Jephunneh.
Contradiction with Joshua 19:48
The territory allotment for the tribe of Dan in this verse might appear inconsistent with the specific city allotment listed in Joshua 21:31.
Joshua 19:48: This [is] the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Dan according to their families, these cities with their villages.
Contradiction with Exodus 15:13
This verse implies the Israelites' journey and settlements were divinely inspired, which contrasts with the human allocation of cities described in Joshua 21:31.
Exodus 15:13: Thou in thy mercy hast led forth the people [which] thou hast redeemed: thou hast guided [them] in thy strength unto thy holy habitation.