Contradictions and Paradoxes in Luke 2:9

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Luke 2:9 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Luke 2:9. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Luke, an angel from God appeared to some shepherds, and God's bright light was all around them, making them very scared. But the angel came with good news, so they didn't need to be afraid.

Luke 2:9: And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

Contradiction with 1 Samuel 6:19

Contradicts the idea of seeing an angel being a positive experience, as the men of Beth-shemesh were struck down for looking into the ark.

1 Samuel 6:19: And he smote the men of Bethshemesh, because they had looked into the ark of the LORD, even he smote of the people fifty thousand and threescore and ten men: and the people lamented, because the LORD had smitten [many] of the people with a great slaughter.

Contradiction with Genesis 32:30

Jacob saw God face to face and his life was preserved, differing from the fear in Luke 2:9 due to God's presence.

Genesis 32:30: And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved. [Peniel: that is, The face of God]

Contradiction with Exodus 33:20

God tells Moses that no one can see His face and live, in contrast to Luke 2:9 where seeing the angel does not lead to death.

Exodus 33:20: And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live.

Contradiction with Judges 13:22

Manoah feared he would die after seeing an angel, unlike the shepherds who were reassured in Luke 2:9.

Judges 13:22: And Manoah said unto his wife, We shall surely die, because we have seen God.

Contradiction with Revelation 1:17

John falls as though dead seeing a heavenly figure, contrasting with the shepherds' fear being allayed in Luke 2:9.

Revelation 1:17: And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last:

Contradiction with Numbers 22:31

Balaam bows to an angel in reverence, an action absent among the shepherds in Luke 2:9.

Numbers 22:31: Then the LORD opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and he bowed down his head, and fell flat on his face. [fell...: or, bowed himself]
Disclaimer: The content provided at PolarBible.com is for educational purposes only. Readers have the full right to agree or disagree with the interpretations and conclusions presented. We take no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken based on the information shared as Polar Verses.