Contradiction with Hebrews 10:19
This verse states that believers have confidence to enter the Holy of Holies by the blood of Jesus, contradicting the restriction in Leviticus 16:2 about Aaron not entering at all times.
Hebrews 10:19: Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, [boldness: or, liberty]
Contradiction with Matthew 27:51
This verse describes the tearing of the temple veil, signifying open access to God, which opposes the restricted access dictated in Leviticus 16:2.
Matthew 27:51: And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent;
Contradiction with Ephesians 2:18
This verse explains that through Jesus we have access to the Father, contrasting the exclusive access rules in Leviticus 16:2.
Ephesians 2:18: For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.
Contradiction with Hebrews 4:16
This verse encourages believers to come boldly to the throne of grace, which contradicts the careful and limited access described in Leviticus 16:2.
Hebrews 4:16: Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
Contradiction with 1 Peter 2:9
This verse describes believers as a royal priesthood with direct access to God, differing from the exclusive priestly access noted in Leviticus 16:2.
1 Peter 2:9: But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: [peculiar: or, purchased] [praises: or, virtues]
Paradox #1
Leviticus 16:2 might raise questions about who has access to God's presence, as it restricts entry to the most sacred space to only certain people at certain times. This could seem at odds with other parts of the Bible that suggest God is accessible to all believers.
Paradox #2
The main contradiction or inconsistency could be related to the description of the presence of God appearing in the cloud over the mercy seat in the Holy of Holies. This specific manifestation of God’s presence, and the rules around it, may not align consistently with other descriptions or instructions elsewhere in the Bible regarding how and where people can encounter God, thereby creating potential theological or narrative conflicts.