Contradiction with Exodus 20:13
This verse states "Thou shalt not kill," contradicting the implied outcome of Jephthah's vow involving his daughter's fate.
Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 12:31
This verse condemns human sacrifice, which contradicts the implications of Jephthah's vow and his daughter's fate.
Deuteronomy 12:31: Thou shalt not do so unto the LORD thy God: for every abomination to the LORD, which he hateth, have they done unto their gods; for even their sons and their daughters they have burnt in the fire to their gods. [to the: Heb. of the]
Contradiction with 2 Kings 17:17
It details the condemnation of sacrificing sons and daughters in fire and is contrary to the sacrifice implied in Judges 11:34.
2 Kings 17:17: And they caused their sons and their daughters to pass through the fire, and used divination and enchantments, and sold themselves to do evil in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 7:31
Describes God's disapproval of human sacrifice, countering the actions suggested in Judges 11:34.
Jeremiah 7:31: And they have built the high places of Tophet, which [is] in the valley of the son of Hinnom, to burn their sons and their daughters in the fire; which I commanded [them] not, neither came it into my heart. [came...: Heb. came it upon my heart]
Contradiction with Micah 6:7
Questions the value of offering one's firstborn, implying opposition to such acts as seen in the vow fulfillment of Jephthah that involves his daughter.
Micah 6:7: Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, [or] with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my firstborn [for] my transgression, the fruit of my body [for] the sin of my soul? [body: Heb. belly]
Paradox #1
The verse in question involves Jephthah's daughter, which is tied to a troubling story about vows and human sacrifice. The theological inconsistency arises when considering God's laws against human sacrifice elsewhere in the Bible, contrasting with this narrative where a vow leads to such an implication. This discrepancy can cause confusion about God's character and expectations.
Paradox #2
Historical studies of ancient texts sometimes point to challenges in understanding cultural practices and norms of the past. Judges 11:34 is part of a narrative involving Jephthah and his daughter. Historical contradictions or inconsistencies can arise when attempting to reconcile this story with our modern understanding of ethics and morality, especially around topics like vows and sacrifices. Some scholars debate how literal or symbolic the events are, as well as their implications within the broader religious and historical context. Additionally, differing interpretations across various traditions can lead to conflicting views on the historical accuracy or intended message of the text.
Paradox #3
The moral conflict in this situation comes from the promise made by Jephthah. He vowed to sacrifice the first thing that greeted him if he won a battle, and when this turned out to be his daughter, it raises questions about the ethics of keeping such a vow, human sacrifice, and the value of human life.