Contradictions and Paradoxes in Judges 16:19

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Judges 16:19 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Judges 16:19. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the book of Judges, Delilah tricked Samson by making him sleep and then cutting his hair, which made him lose his special strength. Christians often understand this story as a lesson about the danger of trusting someone who might not have your best interests at heart.

Judges 16:19: And she made him sleep upon her knees; and she called for a man, and she caused him to shave off the seven locks of his head; and she began to afflict him, and his strength went from him.

Contradiction with Proverbs 31:3

This verse advises not to give strength to women, whereas Judges 16:19 shows Samson's strength being taken by Delilah.

Proverbs 31:3: Give not thy strength unto women, nor thy ways to that which destroyeth kings.

Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 11:15

This verse states that long hair is a glory to a woman, which contrasts with Samson's source of strength being his long hair.

1 Corinthians 11:15: But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for [her] hair is given her for a covering. [covering: or, veil]

Contradiction with 1 Samuel 16:7

This verse emphasizes that God looks at the heart, not outward appearances, which contrasts with Samson's physical strength being tied to his hair.

1 Samuel 16:7: But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for [the LORD seeth] not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. [outward...: Heb. eyes]

Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 12:9

This verse highlights strength in weakness through God's grace, differing from Samson losing strength through an external factor (his hair).

2 Corinthians 12:9: And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Contradiction with Galatians 5:16

Advises to walk in the spirit to avoid fulfilling the lusts of the flesh, which contrasts with Samson being tempted by Delilah.

Galatians 5:16: [This] I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. [ye...: or, fulfil not]

Contradiction with Isaiah 40:29

God gives power to the faint, contradicting the idea of Samson's loss of power through a physical action.

Isaiah 40:29: He giveth power to the faint; and to [them that have] no might he increaseth strength.

Contradiction with James 1:5

Encourages asking God for wisdom freely, contradicting Samson's lack of discernment with Delilah.

James 1:5: If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all [men] liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

Contradiction with Philippians 4:13

States strength comes from Christ, contrasting with Samson who loses strength due to physical circumstances.

Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Paradox #1

The contradiction or inconsistency in Judges 16:19 might relate to the portrayal of Delilah and her role in the narrative. Critics often point out that some parts of the story, like the Philistines' influence over her, seem inconsistent with other historical records of the socio-political dynamics between the Israelites and Philistines during that time. Additionally, the legendary elements of Samson's strength can raise questions about the literal versus symbolic interpretation of the text.

Paradox #2

The contradiction in this verse could be seen in the betrayal and manipulation involved in the story. There is a conflict between trust in relationships and deception, as one character is deceived by a close partner, leading to negative consequences. This can raise questions about the integrity and moral behavior within personal relationships.

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