Contradiction with John 8:7
This verse suggests forgiveness and non-judgment, contrasting with the strict punishment prescribed in Leviticus 20:10.
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 Matthew 5:32
This verse allows for divorce in cases of marital unfaithfulness, acknowledging human failing rather than mandating death, which contrasts with Leviticus 20:10.
Matthew 5:32: But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.
Contradiction with Hosea 3:1
This verse speaks of Hosea's continued love for an adulterous wife, demonstrating grace and mercy instead of the death penalty in Leviticus 20:10.
Hosea 3:1: Then said the LORD unto me, Go yet, love a woman beloved of [her] friend, yet an adulteress, according to the love of the LORD toward the children of Israel, who look to other gods, and love flagons of wine. [of wine: Heb. of grapes]
Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:23
This verse highlights God's desire for repentance and life, not death, contradicting the death penalty for adultery in Leviticus 20:10.
Ezekiel 18:23: Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: [and] not that he should return from his ways, and live?
Contradiction with James 2:13
This verse emphasizes mercy over judgment, which is contrary to the severe punishment in Leviticus 20:10.
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
A potential contradiction could arise when considering the emphasis on forgiveness and grace found in the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, particularly when He addresses issues such as adultery with compassion and forgiveness, as seen in the story of the woman caught in adultery in the Gospel of John. This could seem inconsistent with the Old Testament law that prescribes severe punishment, highlighting a shift from strict retributive justice to a focus on mercy and redemption.
Paradox #2
Leviticus 20:10 prescribes a severe punishment for adultery. A potential inconsistency arises when comparing this with the New Testament, where Jesus shows mercy to a woman caught in adultery (John 8:3-11). This difference highlights a shift from strict legal punishment in the Old Testament to a focus on forgiveness and mercy in the New Testament.
Paradox #3
The contradiction might arise because the punishment prescribed in that verse is significantly harsher than the treatment of similar offenses in other parts of the Bible or in modern law. Some might argue it clashes with later biblical teachings about forgiveness and mercy.
Paradox #4
The contradiction or conflict in Leviticus 20:10 might involve its stance on justice and punishment, which does not align with modern legal systems based on human rights and evidence-based justice. In contemporary society, laws focus on fair trials and rehabilitation rather than severe, immediate punishments. This approach emphasizes evolving ethical standards and improved understanding of human behavior, contrasting with the strict, punitive measures suggested in such ancient texts.
Paradox #5
The contradiction in Leviticus 20:10 could be seen as the harshness of the prescribed punishment compared to modern views on justice and forgiveness. While the verse demands severe consequences for certain actions, many people today believe in rehabilitation and mercy, which can conflict with the literal directive.