Contradictions and Paradoxes in Luke 11:38

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Luke 11:38 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Luke 11:38. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Luke, the Pharisee was surprised because Jesus did not wash his hands before eating. Jesus wanted to show that being clean on the inside is more important than just being clean on the outside.

Luke 11:38: And when the Pharisee saw [it], he marvelled that he had not first washed before dinner.

Contradiction with Mark 7:2-5

These verses describe how the Pharisees and scribes questioned Jesus about His disciples eating with unwashed hands, suggesting that there was concern for traditional ritual washing, which seems to contradict the point in Luke 11:38 where Jesus is criticized for not performing a ritual washing.

Mark 7:2-5: And when they saw some of his disciples eat bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashen, hands, they found fault. [defiled: or, common]

Contradiction with Matthew 15:2

This verse shows the Pharisees asking why Jesus’ disciples break the tradition of the elders by not washing hands, establishing the emphasis on ritual practice in contrast to the situation in Luke 11:38.

Matthew 15:2: Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread.

Contradiction with Luke 11:41

In the same discourse, this verse indicates that what matters is not ritual purity but the generosity and purity of the heart, which contradicts the Pharisee’s concern in Luke 11:38 about external washing.

Luke 11:41: But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you. [of...: or, as you are able]
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