Contradiction with Proverbs 6:6-9
This passage criticizes laziness and encourages diligence, contradicting the image of Reuben's inactivity.
Proverbs 6:6-9: Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 11:4
Advocates for taking action despite uncertainties, contrasting the indecision and hesitation implied in Judges 5:16.
Ecclesiastes 11:4: He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap.
Contradiction with Matthew 25:26-30
Condemns the servant who does nothing with his talent, opposing the inaction described in Judges 5:16.
Matthew 25:26-30: His lord answered and said unto him, [Thou] wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed:
Contradiction with James 1:22-24
Encourages being doers of the word, not just hearers, which contrasts Reuben's passivity in Judges 5:16.
James 1:22-24: But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
Contradiction with Colossians 3:23
Urges doing work heartily, opposing the lack of action seen in Judges 5:16.
Colossians 3:23: And whatsoever ye do, do [it] heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
Contradiction with 2 Thessalonians 3:11-12
Condemns idleness, which contrasts with Reuben's lack of action described in Judges 5:16.
2 Thessalonians 3:11-12: For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies.
Paradox #1
Some interpretations suggest that Judges 5:16 might conflict with accounts of unity or participation among Israelite tribes in other biblical passages. While Judges 5:16 questions why some tribes remained by their sheepfolds instead of joining the battle, other parts of the Bible emphasize unity and collective action among these tribes, creating a potential inconsistency in their portrayed behavior during times of conflict.