Contradiction with Hebrews 10:4
This verse states that it is not possible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins, contradicting the idea in Leviticus 4:20 that such sacrifices make atonement.
Hebrews 10:4: For [it is] not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.
Contradiction with 1 Samuel 15:22
This verse suggests that God delights more in obedience than in sacrifices, challenging the concept of sacrifice for atonement found in Leviticus 4:20.
1 Samuel 15:22: And Samuel said, Hath the LORD [as great] delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey [is] better than sacrifice, [and] to hearken than the fat of rams.
Contradiction with Isaiah 1:11
This verse expresses God's weariness of sacrifices, contrasting with the idea in Leviticus 4:20 that sacrifices are needed for atonement.
Isaiah 1:11: To what purpose [is] the multitude of your sacrifices unto me? saith the LORD: I am full of the burnt offerings of rams, and the fat of fed beasts; and I delight not in the blood of bullocks, or of lambs, or of he goats. [he goats: Heb. great he goats]
Contradiction with Hosea 6:6
This verse emphasizes mercy and knowledge of God over burnt offerings, contradicting the focus on sacrifice for atonement in Leviticus 4:20.
Hosea 6:6: For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.
Contradiction with Matthew 9:13
This verse highlights mercy rather than sacrifice, which conflicts with the sacrificial atonement practice described in Leviticus 4:20.
Matthew 9:13: But go ye and learn what [that] meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
Contradiction with Micah 6:6-8
These verses question the value of sacrifices and emphasize justice and mercy, contradicting the role of sacrifices in atonement in Leviticus 4:20.
Micah 6:6-8: Wherewith shall I come before the LORD, [and] bow myself before the high God? shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old? [of a...: Heb. sons of a year?]
Paradox #1
Leviticus 4:20 discusses a specific process for atonement involving animal sacrifice. A potential contradiction arises when comparing this with later biblical texts that suggest animal sacrifices are not the only or most important means for atonement or forgiveness. For example, some prophets and New Testament writings emphasize repentance and ethical behavior over sacrificial rituals. This can seem inconsistent because the approach to atonement evolves over time within the Bible.
Paradox #2
The moral conflict could arise from the idea of sacrifice for forgiveness. Some might see a contradiction in needing to perform a ritual for atonement instead of being forgiven through sincere repentance and inner change. This might seem inconsistent with the belief that forgiveness should come straightforwardly from one's heart and actions, not through external rituals.