Contradictions and Paradoxes in Joshua 7:1

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Joshua 7:1 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Joshua 7:1. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the book of Joshua, God's people did something wrong because Achan took something he wasn't supposed to, which made God very upset with everyone. This was like when someone doesn't follow the rules and the whole group gets in trouble.

Joshua 7:1: But the children of Israel committed a trespass in the accursed thing: for Achan, the son of Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took of the accursed thing: and the anger of the LORD was kindled against the children of Israel. [Achan: also called, Achar] [Zabdi: also called, Zimri]

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 24:16

This verse states that children shall not be punished for the sins of their fathers, yet in Joshua 7:1, Achan's family suffers consequences for his sin.

Deuteronomy 24:16: The fathers shall not be put to death for the children, neither shall the children be put to death for the fathers: every man shall be put to death for his own sin.

Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:20

It emphasizes individual responsibility for sin, contradicting Joshua 7:1 where Achan's sin affects the entire community.

Ezekiel 18:20: The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.

Contradiction with Proverbs 17:15

Declares that justifying the wicked is an abomination; in Joshua 7:1, the whole Israel was condemned for one man's sin, seemingly justifying the wicked by extending blame.

Proverbs 17:15: He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both [are] abomination to the LORD.

Paradox #1

The potential conflict in Joshua 7:1 could be related to the issue of collective punishment versus individual responsibility. The verse implies that the whole community of Israel suffered consequences because one person, Achan, sinned. This raises questions about fairness and justice, as it seems inconsistent with later biblical themes emphasizing individual accountability.

Paradox #2

The potential contradiction in this verse lies in the idea that the actions of one individual bring consequences upon an entire community. This can be seen as conflicting with contemporary views of justice, where people are traditionally held accountable for their own actions rather than collectively punished for the actions of one person.

Disclaimer: The content provided at PolarBible.com is for educational purposes only. Readers have the full right to agree or disagree with the interpretations and conclusions presented. We take no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken based on the information shared as Polar Verses.