Contradiction with Matthew 5:39
Contradicts the idea of trained warriors in Judges 20:16 with the principle of turning the other cheek instead of using force or skill in battle.
Matthew 5:39: But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
Contradiction with Isaiah 2:4
Contradicts the focus on martial skill by envisioning a future where nations do not train for war, contrasting the readiness for battle in Judges 20:16.
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]
Contradiction with Romans 12:19
Encourages leaving vengeance to God, opposing the empowerment and action described in Judges 20:16 for a worldly conflict.
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 1 Peter 3:9
Emphasizes not repaying evil with evil, conflicting with the martial readiness and potential for battle as shown in Judges 20:16.
1 Peter 3:9: Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.
Contradiction with Micah 4:3
Shares a vision of peace with no need for warriors, contradicting the existence of specialized fighting forces mentioned in Judges 20:16.
Micah 4:3: And he shall judge among many people, and rebuke strong nations afar off; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up a sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. [pruninghooks: or, scythes]
Paradox #1
The contradiction or inconsistency about the verse relates to the seemingly extraordinary skill level described for a large group of people in ancient warfare. It's about the claim that 700 left-handed men could sling a stone at a hair and not miss. People might find it hard to believe that such precise skill could be mastered by so many individuals without modern technology or training methods. This could seem exaggerated or implausible from a historical perspective.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction in this context could be seen in the emphasis on the precise and deadly skill of the left-handed slingers. This focus on violence and the ability to kill with precision could seem at odds with broader biblical themes promoting peace and valuing life. The skill is described with admiration, which might conflict with moral teachings that discourage killing.