Contradiction with Numbers 20:14-21
In these verses, it describes Moses sending messengers from Kadesh to the king of Edom, asking for passage through their land, and the Edomites refuse. This contradicts Judges 11:17's assertion that Israel did not send such messengers.
Numbers 20:14-21: And Moses sent messengers from Kadesh unto the king of Edom, Thus saith thy brother Israel, Thou knowest all the travail that hath befallen us: [befallen...: Heb. found us]
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 2:4-8
These verses depict the Israelites being commanded to pass through the territory of their relatives, the descendants of Esau in Seir, and explicitly mention that the Edomites did not come out against Israel with military force, contradicting Judges 11:17 by not mentioning any refusal or hostility.
Deuteronomy 2:4-8: And command thou the people, saying, Ye [are] to pass through the coast of your brethren the children of Esau, which dwell in Seir; and they shall be afraid of you: take ye good heed unto yourselves therefore:
Paradox #1
There is a contradiction because Judges 11:17 mentions that the Israelites sent messengers to the king of Edom and asked for passage, but the king of Edom wouldn't let them. However, in Numbers 20:14-21, a similar event is described where Moses sends messengers to the king of Edom, who also refuses but more context is given. The accounts differ in detail and context, leading to some confusion or inconsistency in the narrative.