Contradictions and Paradoxes in Judges 8:1

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Judges 8:1 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Judges 8:1. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of the book of Judges, the people from the tribe of Ephraim were upset because they were not asked to help fight the enemies called the Midianites. They were angry and scolded Gideon for leaving them out of the battle.

Judges 8:1: And the men of Ephraim said unto him, Why hast thou served us thus, that thou calledst us not, when thou wentest to fight with the Midianites? And they did chide with him sharply. [Why...: Heb. What thing is this thou hast done unto us] [sharply: Heb. strongly]

Contradiction with Proverbs 15:1

This verse advocates for a "soft answer" to turn away wrath, whereas Judges 8:1 shows the Ephraimites confronting Gideon with anger for not being called to fight against Midian earlier.

Proverbs 15:1: A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

Contradiction with Matthew 5:9

This verse blesses peacemakers, contrasting with Judges 8:1, where the Ephraimites are contentious and confrontational instead of seeking peace.

Matthew 5:9: Blessed [are] the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

Contradiction with James 1:19

It advises everyone to be "slow to anger," whereas Judges 8:1 depicts the Ephraimites quickly angered by their exclusion from battle.

James 1:19: Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

Paradox #1

The contradiction in Judges 8:1 relates to the reaction of the tribe of Ephraim. In earlier passages, the tribe of Ephraim had previously shown strong support and involvement in Israelite conflicts. In this case, however, they express anger over not being called to battle initially. This might seem inconsistent with their usual active involvement in Israelite military efforts.

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