Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
This verse promotes loving your enemies and praying for those who persecute you, which contradicts the retributive justice concept in Leviticus 24:21.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with Matthew 5:38-39
This verse advises not to resist an evil person and to turn the other cheek, contradicting the principle of equal retaliation in Leviticus 24:21.
Matthew 5:38-39: Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:
Contradiction with Romans 12:17
This verse instructs not to repay anyone evil for evil, which contradicts the demand for retaliation in Leviticus 24:21.
Romans 12:17: Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
Contradiction with Romans 12:19
This verse advises leaving vengeance to God, opposing the immediate retribution outlined in Leviticus 24:21.
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 Luke 6:29
This verse suggests offering the other cheek to someone who strikes you, which contrasts with the retribution principle in Leviticus 24:21.
Luke 6:29: And unto him that smiteth thee on the [one] cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid not [to take thy] coat also.
Paradox #1
The verse in Leviticus 24:21 discusses a principle of justice that requires equal retribution, which can seem to conflict with New Testament teachings of forgiveness and turning the other cheek, as taught by Jesus. This difference in approach can appear as a contradiction between the Old Testament's strict justice and the New Testament's emphasis on mercy and forgiveness.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or inconsistency with this verse could be in terms of the principle of equivalent retribution, often called "an eye for an eye." Modern science and ethics support a justice system based on rehabilitation and understanding human behavior rather than strict reciprocal punishment. The focus is more on preventing future harm rather than exacting equivalent retribution.
Paradox #3
Leviticus 24:21 discusses punishment and retribution, specifically outlining consequences for harming animals versus humans. A contradiction or inconsistency might arise when comparing this principle with other biblical teachings on forgiveness and mercy, like those taught by Jesus in the New Testament. While Leviticus emphasizes strict justice ("eye for an eye"), the New Testament often focuses on forgiveness and turning the other cheek, which can seem in conflict with the earlier call for equal retribution.