Contradictions and Paradoxes in Leviticus 19:20

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Leviticus 19:20 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Leviticus 19:20. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Moses, if a man sleeps with a woman who is a servant and promised to another man, they won’t be put to death because she is not a free woman. Instead, there will be a punishment, but it's less severe than if she were free.

Leviticus 19:20: And whosoever lieth carnally with a woman, that [is] a bondmaid, betrothed to an husband, and not at all redeemed, nor freedom given her; she shall be scourged; they shall not be put to death, because she was not free. [betrothed...: or, abused by any: Heb. reproached by (or, for) man] [she shall...: or, they, etc: Heb. there shall be a scourging]

Contradiction with John 8:7

Jesus teaches forgiveness in the case of adultery, rather than punishment.

John 8:7: So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.

Contradiction with 1 John 4:8

Highlights God's nature as love, which may contradict the punitive approach in Leviticus.

1 John 4:8: He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.

Contradiction with Galatians 3:28

There is neither bond nor free, implying equality, challenging the distinctions in Leviticus.

Galatians 3:28: There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

Contradiction with James 2:13

Emphasizes mercy over judgment, contrasting with punitive measures in Leviticus.

James 2:13: For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. [rejoiceth: or, glorieth]

Paradox #1

The potential theological issue with Leviticus 19:20 is that it addresses situations of adultery involving a slave woman, suggesting a different standard of justice for slaves compared to free individuals. This can conflict with the broader biblical themes of justice and equality before God.

Paradox #2

Leviticus 19:20 can raise questions because it addresses the situation of a man having sexual relations with a female slave who is engaged to another man. The verse specifies a specific punishment, which contrasts with harsher penalties prescribed for similar actions involving free individuals. This could be seen as inconsistent with modern views on justice and equality, as it appears to treat enslaved individuals differently under the law.

Paradox #3

This verse involves specific historical and cultural practices that are not aligned with modern scientific understandings of human rights and equality. It reflects ancient societal norms and legal concepts that conflict with contemporary views on justice and fair treatment of individuals.

Paradox #4

Leviticus 19:20 discusses the consequences for a man who has sexual relations with a female slave who is promised to another man. The moral inconsistency here lies in the differing treatment of people based on their social status. The punishment for the man is relatively minor, and there is an apparent lack of consideration for the woman's autonomy and well-being, reflecting the disparity in how individuals are valued and treated based on their position in society.

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