Judges 8:26 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to the author of the book of Judges, the leader Gideon gathered a big pile of shiny gold from the people, which was as heavy as many bags of candy, and he also got fancy clothes and other special things from the kings he defeated. Christians might learn from this that sometimes people gather too much treasure, which doesn't always make them happy.

Contradiction with Matthew 6:19

This verse advises against storing up treasures on earth, contradicting the accumulation of wealth described in Judges 8:26.

Matthew 6:19: Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:

Contradiction with 1 Timothy 6:10

This verse states that the love of money is the root of all evil, conflicting with the collection of gold in Judges 8:26.

1 Timothy 6:10: For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. [erred: or, been seduced]

Contradiction with Proverbs 11:4

This verse says that riches do not profit in the day of wrath, opposing the emphasis on wealth in Judges 8:26.

Proverbs 11:4: Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death.

Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 5:10

This verse discusses the dissatisfaction that comes with loving wealth, contrasting with the wealth accumulation in Judges 8:26.

Ecclesiastes 5:10: He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this [is] also vanity.

Contradiction with Luke 18:22

This verse advises selling possessions and giving to the poor, contradicting the hoarding of riches in Judges 8:26.

Luke 18:22: Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.

Paradox #1

One possible historical inconsistency with Judges 8:26 could involve the amount of gold collected from the Ishmaelites compared to the wealth that Gideon's family would realistically have during that time period. The amount referenced might seem exaggerated or inconsistent with typical wealth and resources recorded elsewhere in historical accounts from that era.

Paradox #2

The moral conflict in this verse could be tied to the idea of accumulating wealth and luxury. In some parts of the Bible, wealth is seen as a potential distraction from spiritual duties, and amassing riches might contradict teachings that promote humility and reliance on God rather than material possessions. This could create a tension between displaying wealth and living a life focused on spiritual values.