Contradiction with Exodus 4:24-26
This verse describes how God sought to kill Moses for not circumcising his son, highlighting the importance of circumcision prior to Joshua 5:3, where Joshua performs mass circumcision for those not circumcised in the wilderness.
Exodus 4:24-26: And it came to pass by the way in the inn, that the LORD met him, and sought to kill him.
Contradiction with Judges 2:20-21
These verses show God's anger towards Israel for disobedience, promising not to drive out the nations due to their failure, contrasting with the act of obedience in circumcision in Joshua 5:3.
Judges 2:20-21: And the anger of the LORD was hot against Israel; and he said, Because that this people hath transgressed my covenant which I commanded their fathers, and have not hearkened unto my voice;
Contradiction with 1 Samuel 15:22
This verse emphasizes that obedience is better than sacrifice, potentially contradicting the necessity of Joshua's act of circumcision in Joshua 5:3 in the context of overall obedience.
1 Samuel 15:22: And Samuel said, Hath the LORD [as great] delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey [is] better than sacrifice, [and] to hearken than the fat of rams.
Contradiction with Galatians 5:6
This verse states that in Christ, circumcision means nothing, which would contradict the significant act of circumcision in Joshua 5:3 for the Israelites.
Galatians 5:6: For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.
Contradiction with Romans 2:29
It describes true circumcision as a matter of the heart and spirit, which paradoxically contrasts with the physical circumcision emphasized in Joshua 5:3.
Romans 2:29: But he [is] a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision [is that] of the heart, in the spirit, [and] not in the letter; whose praise [is] not of men, but of God.
Paradox #1
The verse describes Joshua making flint knives and circumcising the Israelites. The potential contradiction might involve the use of flint knives for surgical procedures by a large group of people, which could pose hygiene and sterility issues compared to modern medical practices. However, it's important to recognize the historical context and practices of the time when the text was written.
Paradox #2
One possible contradiction in Joshua 5:3 could be seen in the act of circumcision being performed on all male Israelites as a command from God, which some might view as contradictory to contemporary views on bodily autonomy and consent, especially because it involves a permanent change to the body made by others. This action might be seen as conflicting with modern values of personal choice regarding one’s own body.