Contradiction with Galatians 3:28
This verse states there is neither bond nor free in Christ, suggesting equality, contradicting the concept of servitude in Leviticus 25:42.
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 Ephesians 6:5
This verse instructs servants to obey their masters, seemingly supporting servitude rather than opposing it as Leviticus 25:42 might suggest.
Ephesians 6:5: Servants, be obedient to them that are [your] masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;
Contradiction with Colossians 3:11
Emphasizes no distinction between slave and free, which contradicts the notion of Israelites not being sold as slaves as mentioned in Leviticus 25:42.
Colossians 3:11: Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond [nor] free: but Christ [is] all, and in all.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 7:21
Encourages those who are called as slaves to gain freedom if possible, indicating a preference for freedom as opposed to servitude.
1 Corinthians 7:21: Art thou called [being] a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use [it] rather.
Contradiction with 1 Peter 2:18
Advises servants to be subject to their masters, even harsh ones, which contrasts with the idea of Israelites not being sold as slaves.
1 Peter 2:18: Servants, [be] subject to [your] masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward.
Contradiction with Philemon 1:16
Refers to a slave as a beloved brother, suggesting a change in status from servitude which contrasts with keeping servants as mentioned in Leviticus 25:42.
Philemon 1:16: Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord?
Paradox #1
The verse in question emphasizes that the Israelites should not be sold as slaves because they are God's servants. A possible contradiction could arise when comparing this with other parts of the Bible that discuss slavery. While this verse prohibits enslaving fellow Israelites, other scriptures provide rules for slavery or acknowledge its practice, which can seem inconsistent. This can lead to questions about how the Bible views the institution of slavery overall.
Paradox #2
Leviticus 25:42 could be seen as inconsistent with other parts of the Bible where slavery is permitted or regulated. While this verse emphasizes that Israelites should not be made slaves permanently because they are God's servants, other parts of the Bible provide guidelines on how slaves should be bought, treated, and released, which can seem contradictory to the idea of not enslaving fellow Israelites.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in Leviticus 25:42 could arise from the verse advocating for the fair treatment of certain groups of people while other parts of the same text support slavery or different treatment among groups. This inconsistency can lead to ethical conflicts about the universal application of principles like fairness and equality.