Contradiction with Galatians 3:28
This verse states that all are one in Christ Jesus, implying equality among people regardless of status.
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 Exodus 21:16
This verse condemns man-stealing, indicating a principle against exploiting others for slavery.
Exodus 21:16: And he that stealeth a man, and selleth him, or if he be found in his hand, he shall surely be put to death.
Contradiction with Matthew 7:12
Known as the Golden Rule, it advocates treating others as one would like to be treated, opposing the exploitation aspect of slavery.
Matthew 7:12: Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
Contradiction with Philemon 1:16
Paul urges Philemon to receive Onesimus “not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved,” which counters the notion of one person owning another.
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?
Contradiction with 1 Timothy 1:10
It lists “menstealers” (slave traders) among sinners, suggesting opposition to the practice of slavery.
1 Timothy 1:10: For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;
Contradiction with Colossians 4:1
Advises masters to give unto their servants what is just and equal, promoting fairness and countering the injustice in slavery.
Colossians 4:1: Masters, give unto [your] servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven.
Contradiction with Isaiah 58:6
Calls for loosing the chains of injustice and setting the oppressed free, which contradicts the notion of keeping slaves.
Isaiah 58:6: [Is] not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? [the heavy...: Heb. the bundles of the yoke] [oppressed: Heb. broken]
Paradox #1
The verse from Leviticus might appear to contradict the broader biblical themes of love, equality, and justice. While it permits a form of servitude, other parts of the Bible emphasize treating others with love and kindness. This might seem inconsistent with the idea of owning others as property.
Paradox #2
Some people see a contradiction in terms of moral teachings because certain Bible passages, including Leviticus 25:44, seem to allow practices like slavery, which are widely viewed as unethical today. In contrast, other parts of the Bible emphasize love, kindness, and treating others as you want to be treated. This can create a tension between historical context and modern ethical values.
Paradox #3
Leviticus 25:44 has been criticized for seeming to allow the owning of foreign slaves, which conflicts with more modern views on human rights and dignity. This has led to debates about how these ancient texts should be interpreted today.
Paradox #4
This verse is sometimes criticized for allowing the ownership of slaves from other nations. The contradiction comes from modern ethical understandings, where human rights and equality are central values. Science, particularly social sciences and human rights studies, emphasizes equality and the inherent dignity of all humans, which conflicts with the acceptance of slavery in the text.
Paradox #5
Leviticus 25:44 allows owning slaves from neighboring nations, which can conflict with the moral belief in human equality and freedom. This raises questions about the consistency of treating others as equals while endorsing ownership over them.