Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:20
This verse emphasizes individual responsibility for sin, contradicting the idea of transferring collective sins to a scapegoat as in Leviticus 16:21.
Ezekiel 18:20: The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.
Contradiction with Hebrews 10:4
It states that it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins, contradicting the efficacy of the scapegoat in Leviticus 16:21.
Hebrews 10:4: For [it is] not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.
Contradiction with Isaiah 1:11
This verse questions the value of animal sacrifices, including scapegoats, contradicting Leviticus 16:21 which relies on such a ritual for atonement.
Isaiah 1:11: To what purpose [is] the multitude of your sacrifices unto me? saith the LORD: I am full of the burnt offerings of rams, and the fat of fed beasts; and I delight not in the blood of bullocks, or of lambs, or of he goats. [he goats: Heb. great he goats]
Contradiction with Jeremiah 31:29-30
These verses focus on personal accountability for sin, which contradicts the communal sin-bearing role of the scapegoat in Leviticus 16:21.
Jeremiah 31:29-30: In those days they shall say no more, The fathers have eaten a sour grape, and the children's teeth are set on edge.
Contradiction with Psalm 49:7-8
This passage states that no man can ransom another's life or give to God the price of his own or anyone else's life, which contradicts the substitutionary nature of the scapegoat in Leviticus 16:21.
Psalm 49:7-8: None [of them] can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him:
Paradox #1
Leviticus 16:21 describes a ritual involving a scapegoat, which might seem inconsistent or conflicting with later Jewish and Christian practices that don't include this ritual. It contrasts with the evolution of worship practices, as detailed in other parts of the Bible, where the focus shifts away from animal sacrifices.
Paradox #2
Leviticus 16:21 discusses the ritual where sins are placed on a scapegoat, which is then sent away. The contradiction could be seen in the idea of transferring one's sins onto an innocent animal. It raises questions about justice and personal responsibility, as it might imply avoiding accountability for one's actions by placing the blame elsewhere.