Joshua 8:26 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to the author of the book of Joshua, this verse means that Joshua kept his spear raised as a sign of God's power until the battle was won. It shows that Joshua trusted God to help him win, and he didn't stop until the job was done.

Contradiction with Exodus 20:13

"Thou shalt not kill" contradicts the act of Joshua not withdrawing his hand, leading to the destruction of Ai.

Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.

Contradiction with Matthew 26:52

"For all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword" contradicts the portrayal of violence as a means of achieving victory in Joshua 8:26.

Matthew 26:52: Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?

Contradiction with Proverbs 16:32

"He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty" contradicts the depiction of aggression and battle in Joshua 8:26.

Proverbs 16:32: [He that is] slow to anger [is] better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

Paradox #1

One potential contradiction could be the portrayal of God's character as compassionate versus the actions commanded in battles. Some might find it inconsistent with the idea of a loving God to endorse violent actions. This can raise questions about reconciling God's justice and mercy in these narratives.

Paradox #2

Joshua 8:26 might seem inconsistent when comparing the depiction of God's commands for warfare and destruction in the Old Testament with the teachings of love and forgiveness found in the New Testament, specifically the teachings of Jesus. This contrast can appear contradictory regarding how to treat enemies and the morality of warfare.

Paradox #3

The contradiction or inconsistency related to Joshua 8:26 could be the varying accounts of the destruction of Ai. Archaeologists have found limited evidence of significant settlement at Ai during the time Joshua supposedly captured it, leading to questions about the historical accuracy of the biblical narrative.

Paradox #4

The contradiction in that verse could be seen as the conflict between the command to love and show mercy, and the act of complete destruction and violence depicted. This might seem inconsistent with teachings in other parts of the Bible that emphasize love, compassion, and forgiveness.