Contradiction with Numbers 6:6-7
Leviticus 21:12 prohibits the high priest from mourning over the dead, while Numbers allows Nazarites to be defiled for close kin, contrasting the restrictions on mourning practices.
Numbers 6:6-7: All the days that he separateth [himself] unto the LORD he shall come at no dead body.
Contradiction with Matthew 8:21-22
In Leviticus 21:12, priests are restricted from mourning or leaving their sacred duties, but Jesus tells a disciple to follow Him rather than bury his own father, placing a higher priority over family mourning.
Matthew 8:21-22: And another of his disciples said unto him, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father.
Contradiction with Luke 9:59-60
Leviticus 21:12 restricts high priests from leaving the sanctuary even for the dead, whereas Jesus instructs a potential follower to prioritize proclaiming the kingdom of God over burying his father, challenging traditional burial duties.
Luke 9:59-60: And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father.
Paradox #1
The verse in Leviticus might seem to conflict with the idea of compassion and mourning for family members, which is emphasized in other parts of the Bible. By instructing certain people not to mourn as others do, it could raise questions about the balance between religious duty and personal compassion.
Paradox #2
Leviticus 21:12 contains instructions for priests and their conduct. A potential contradiction or conflict could arise when comparing these instructions to the New Testament emphasis on personal faith over ritual purity. The contrast between strict Old Testament rules for priests and the New Testament message that all believers are a "priesthood" could be seen as inconsistent.
Paradox #3
One potential contradiction in Leviticus 21:12 is that it sets strict rules for religious leaders, which may seem unfair or overly harsh compared to the general population. This can appear inconsistent with the idea of kindness and forgiveness that is emphasized elsewhere in religious teachings.