Contradiction with Exodus 20:13
This verse commands not to kill, which contradicts with Joshua 6:25 as it describes the conquering and destruction of Jericho, excluding Rahab and her family.
Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.
Contradiction with Hebrews 11:31
This verse highlights Rahab's faith as the reason for her survival, while Joshua 6:25 implies her survival was due to her actions of hiding the spies.
Hebrews 11:31: By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace. [that...: or, that were disobedient]
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
This verse instructs to love your enemies, contrasting with the destruction of Jericho and sparing only Rahab’s family.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with Proverbs 12:22
This verse condemns lying lips, yet Rahab's deception of the king's men is key to her preservation in Joshua 6:25.
Proverbs 12:22: Lying lips [are] abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly [are] his delight.
Paradox #1
The contradiction involves Rahab's fate. In Joshua 6:25, Rahab and her family are spared and live among the Israelites. However, other parts of the Bible suggest differing stories or imply harsh treatment of Canaanites. These conflicting accounts create questions about her story's consistency.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in this situation might stem from the fact that while Rahab and her family are spared and saved, the rest of the inhabitants of Jericho are destroyed. This raises questions about fairness and the value of forgiveness or protection granted to an individual and their family, contrasting with the destruction of others.