Contradictions and Paradoxes in Joshua 8:19

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Joshua 8:19 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Joshua 8:19. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the book of Joshua, God's people waited quietly until it was time to act, and then they followed God's plan to take over the city quickly and set it on fire. This shows that when they listened to God and followed His directions, they were able to win over their enemies.

Joshua 8:19: And the ambush arose quickly out of their place, and they ran as soon as he had stretched out his hand: and they entered into the city, and took it, and hasted and set the city on fire.

Contradiction with Exodus 20:13

This verse commands "Thou shalt not kill," contradicting the act of warfare and city destruction depicted in Joshua 8:19.

Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:44

This verse instructs to "love your enemies," contrasting with the military tactics used in Joshua 8:19.

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 Romans 12:19

This verse advises against seeking vengeance, which contrasts with the attack on Ai in Joshua 8:19.

Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

Contradiction with Proverbs 25:21-22

This verse suggests feeding your enemy if he is hungry, contradicting the notion of ambushing and defeating them as described in Joshua 8:19.

Proverbs 25:21-22: If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:

Contradiction with Isaiah 2:4

This verse talks about turning swords into plowshares and learning war no more, which is in stark contrast to the military engagement in Joshua 8:19.

Isaiah 2:4: And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. [pruninghooks: or, scythes]

Paradox #1

The contradiction or conflict in this context could be the idea of using ambush and destruction as a strategy, which might clash with the values of mercy and compassion that are emphasized in other parts of moral teachings. Using deceit and surprise in battle might seem at odds with more peaceful, honest approaches to conflict resolution.

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