Contradiction with Deuteronomy 24:1
This verse permits a man to write a bill of divorce if he finds some uncleanness in his wife, seemingly allowing divorce contrary to the prohibition implied in Mark 10:12.
Deuteronomy 24:1: When a man hath taken a wife, and married her, and it come to pass that she find no favour in his eyes, because he hath found some uncleanness in her: then let him write her a bill of divorcement, and give [it] in her hand, and send her out of his house. [some...: Heb. matter of nakedness] [divorcement: Heb. cutting off]
Contradiction with Matthew 5:32
This verse states that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, causes her to commit adultery, whereas Mark 10:12 makes no exception for divorce or remarriage.
Matthew 5:32: But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 7:10-11
These verses advise against divorce but suggest that if separation occurs, one should remain unmarried, whereas Mark 10:12 implies that remarriage after divorce constitutes adultery.
1 Corinthians 7:10-11: And unto the married I command, [yet] not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from [her] husband:
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in Mark 10:12 could involve differing interpretations on teachings about marriage and divorce, particularly compared to other biblical passages that discuss the roles and rights of men and women in marriage. Some interpretations might see a conflict with the traditional view that only men could initiate divorce, which this verse challenges by stating responsibilities for women as well. It could lead to discussions about the equality of genders in marriage and divorce according to biblical teachings.
Paradox #2
Mark 10:12 could potentially conflict with interpretations about the permissibility of divorce in other parts of the Bible. For example, some Old Testament laws provided guidelines for divorce, suggesting it was allowed under certain conditions. However, this verse reflects stricter views on divorce and remarriage. This inconsistency could cause confusion over what is considered acceptable.
Paradox #3
Mark 10:12 could be seen as conflicting with certain Old Testament laws that permitted husbands to divorce their wives but didn’t provide the same right for women to divorce their husbands. This reflects a change in how divorce is addressed in the New Testament, compared to earlier biblical texts.
Paradox #4
Mark 10:12 might create a moral conflict because it addresses the issue of divorce and remarriage, which can be seen as inconsistent with the compassionate and forgiving aspects of teachings elsewhere in the Bible. Some might see it as harsh or rigid, conflicting with the idea of personal growth and forgiveness for past mistakes.