Contradictions and Paradoxes in Joshua 4:20

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Joshua 4:20 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Joshua 4:20. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the Book of Joshua, this part tells that Joshua set up twelve stones in a place called Gilgal as a special reminder. These stones were to help people remember how God helped them cross the river safely.

Joshua 4:20: And those twelve stones, which they took out of Jordan, did Joshua pitch in Gilgal.

Contradiction with Exodus 20:4-5

These verses prohibit the making of graven images or idols, which may seem at odds with setting up physical stones for remembrance.

Exodus 20:4-5: Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness [of any thing] that [is] in heaven above, or that [is] in the earth beneath, or that [is] in the water under the earth:

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 27:2-4

These verses instruct the Israelites to set up stones on Mount Ebal and plaster them, which contrasts with setting stones on the banks of the Jordan as in Joshua 4:20.

Deuteronomy 27:2-4: And it shall be on the day when ye shall pass over Jordan unto the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, that thou shalt set thee up great stones, and plaister them with plaister:

Contradiction with Isaiah 44:9

This verse speaks against the futility of idolatry and reliance on physical objects for remembrance or representation of divine acts, contrasting Joshua 4's emphasis on commemoration through stones.

Isaiah 44:9: They that make a graven image [are] all of them vanity; and their delectable things shall not profit; and they [are] their own witnesses; they see not, nor know; that they may be ashamed. [delectable: Heb. desirable]

Contradiction with Jeremiah 10:3-5

These verses describe the practices of idolatry as vain, which might contrast with the setting up of stones as a memorial, seen by some as a form of potential idolatry.

Jeremiah 10:3-5: For the customs of the people [are] vain: for [one] cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. [customs...: Heb. statutes, or, ordinances are vanity]
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