Contradiction with Genesis 12:3
This verse speaks of God's promise to bless those who bless Abram, contradicting Judges 9:28 where Gaal questions the authority and lineage of Abimelech, a descendant of Abraham.
Genesis 12:3: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.
Contradiction with 1 Samuel 10:1
This verse describes Samuel anointing Saul as king over Israel by divine choice, contrasting Judges 9:28 where Gaal disputes Abimelech's right to rule based on lineage and legitimacy.
1 Samuel 10:1: Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured [it] upon his head, and kissed him, and said, [Is it] not because the LORD hath anointed thee [to be] captain over his inheritance?
Contradiction with Romans 13:1
This verse instructs believers to submit to governing authorities as they are established by God, which contradicts the rebellious tone of Gaal in Judges 9:28 questioning Abimelech's authority.
Romans 13:1: Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. [ordained: or, ordered]
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 1:27
This verse teaches that God chooses the weak to shame the strong, contradicting Gaal's emphasis on power and military might in Judges 9:28 to undermine faith in Abimelech's leadership.
1 Corinthians 1:27: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;
Contradiction with Isaiah 55:8
This verse highlights God's thoughts and ways being higher than human understanding, contrasting with Gaal's limited human reasoning in questioning Abimelech's authority in Judges 9:28.
Isaiah 55:8: For my thoughts [are] not your thoughts, neither [are] your ways my ways, saith the LORD.
Contradiction with Proverbs 3:5
This verse advises trusting in the Lord rather than one's own understanding, which contradicts Gaal's reliance on human reasoning and power to challenge Abimelech as seen in Judges 9:28.
Proverbs 3:5: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Paradox #1
The contradiction or conflict in Judges 9:28 could be seen in the criticism of leadership and questioning of authority. It reflects the tension between local and foreign rule, highlighting the complexity of loyalty and trust among people with shared heritage versus outside influences. This can be seen as inconsistent with themes of unity and trust among groups in other parts of the Bible.