Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:20
This verse emphasizes individual responsibility for sin, which contrasts with Leviticus 20:2 where the community is involved in the punishment of the offender.
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 Matthew 7:1
This verse advises against judging others, which contradicts the community enforcement of punishment in Leviticus 20:2.
Matthew 7:1: Judge not, that ye be not judged.
Contradiction with Romans 12:19
This verse instructs to leave vengeance to God, conflicting with the execution by the people in Leviticus 20:2.
Romans 12:19: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
Contradiction with John 8:7
This passage underscores mercy and challenges execution without self-reflection, contrary to the directive to stone the offender in Leviticus 20:2.
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 James 2:13
This verse highlights mercy's triumph over judgment, conflicting with the unyielding judgment prescribed in Leviticus 20:2.
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
Leviticus 20:2 outlines a severe punishment for a specific act, reflecting the strict laws given to the Israelites at the time. A potential contradiction might arise when comparing this with the New Testament's emphasis on forgiveness, mercy, and love. Jesus' teachings often highlight compassion and turning away from retribution, which may seem at odds with the harsh penalties prescribed in some Old Testament laws. This contrast could create tension for some readers trying to reconcile the two parts of the Bible.
Paradox #2
Leviticus 20:2 speaks about punishing those who sacrifice their children to the god Molech. The contradiction or conflict arises because other parts of the Bible have stories of God asking for child sacrifices, like the near-sacrifice of Isaac. This can seem inconsistent because one part of the Bible condemns child sacrifice, while another part involves God requesting it as a test of faith.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in Leviticus 20:2 could relate to the prescribed punishment, which involves stoning people to death. From a modern scientific and ethical perspective, such practices contradict contemporary understandings of human rights and humane treatment. Science and ethics today emphasize rehabilitation and humane treatment over capital punishment, especially such violent methods.
Paradox #4
One potential contradiction in Leviticus 20:2 could be the conflict between the directive to punish certain behaviors with death and the broader moral teachings in the Bible about forgiveness, love, and the sanctity of life. This contrast can raise questions about how justice and mercy are balanced within the text.