Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:20
This verse states that the son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, which contradicts the idea in Joshua 7:15, where the punishment extends to the entire household of the transgressor.
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 Deuteronomy 24:16
This verse declares that each person shall be put to death for their own sin, opposing Joshua 7:15 where the community is punished for one man's 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 2 Kings 14:6
Similar to Deuteronomy 24:16, this verse supports the idea that children should not be put to death for their fathers' sins, conflicting with the collective punishment seen in Joshua 7:15.
2 Kings 14:6: But the children of the murderers he slew not: according unto that which is written in the book of the law of Moses, wherein the LORD commanded, saying, The fathers shall not be put to death for the children, nor the children be put to death for the fathers; but every man shall be put to death for his own sin.
Paradox #1
The contradiction in Joshua 7:15 could be seen in the harsh punishment prescribed for the wrongdoing, raising questions about justice and mercy. It might seem inconsistent with other parts of the Bible that emphasize forgiveness and grace. This can lead to conflict in understanding how justice and compassion are balanced.