Leviticus 26:37 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to Moses, this verse means that if the people don't follow God's rules, they will be scared and feel weak even when nobody is chasing them, and they won't be able to stand up to their enemies. It's like feeling afraid and falling down even when nothing is there to hurt them.

Contradiction with Psalm 27:1

This verse speaks of the Lord as a source of strength and fearlessness, contrasting with the fear and weakness described in Leviticus 26:37.

Psalm 27:1: [[A Psalm] of David.] The LORD [is] my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD [is] the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

Contradiction with 2 Timothy 1:7

It emphasizes the spirit of power, love, and a sound mind given by God, opposing the fear and confusion outlined in Leviticus 26:37.

2 Timothy 1:7: For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

Contradiction with Isaiah 41:10

This verse reassures believers of God's presence and strength, contradicting the description of fleeing without strength to stand.

Isaiah 41:10: Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Contradiction with Romans 8:31

It asserts that if God is for us, no one can be against us, opposing the helplessness portrayed in Leviticus 26:37.

Romans 8:31: What shall we then say to these things? If God [be] for us, who [can be] against us?

Contradiction with Joshua 1:9

This verse commands strength and courage, clashing with the defeat and stumbling depicted in Leviticus 26:37.

Joshua 1:9: Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God [is] with thee whithersoever thou goest.

Paradox #1

Theological discussions sometimes highlight that the punishment described can be seen as inconsistent with a loving and forgiving God, as portrayed in other parts of the Bible. Some might question how divine justice aligns with such severe consequences. However, interpretations vary widely, and many see it as part of a covenant context specific to its time.

Paradox #2

This verse describes people stumbling over each other as if fleeing from a sword, even though no one is pursuing them. The contradiction or conflict might arise from the idea that fear and panic can cause people to harm each other without any real external threat, pointing to the irrational nature of fear-driven actions. It can be seen as conflicting with the notion of having faith and trust in protection.