Contradiction with Exodus 20:4
Contradicts the erection of physical monuments or images, as Joshua 4:9 describes Joshua setting up stones as a memorial.
Exodus 20:4: 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 5:8
Similar to Exodus 20:4, prohibits the creation of graven images, which contrasts with the act of setting up stones as a physical testimony.
Deuteronomy 5:8: Thou shalt not make 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 waters beneath the earth:
Contradiction with Isaiah 2:8
Criticizes the worship and reverence of what human hands have made, which can contrast with creating memorial stones like in Joshua 4:9.
Isaiah 2:8: Their land also is full of idols; they worship the work of their own hands, that which their own fingers have made:
Contradiction with Acts 17:24
Emphasizes that God does not dwell in temples made with hands, contrasting with setting up physical memorials as seen in Joshua 4:9.
Acts 17:24: God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;
Paradox #1
Joshua 4:9 might present a contradiction or inconsistency when compared to other parts of the same chapter. In some interpretations, there appears to be confusion over whether Joshua sets up one set of stones in the riverbed of the Jordan or if there are two separate sets of stones described—one in the river and another carried to the camp. Depending on the reading, it may seem like there are multiple accounts of stone placements that need reconciliation.