Contradiction with Matthew 5:29-30
These verses echo a similar sentiment to Mark 9:47, rather than contradicting it.
Matthew 5:29-30: And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast [it] from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not [that] thy whole body should be cast into hell. [offend...: or, do cause thee to offend]
Contradiction with Exodus 21:23-25
Advocates for a principle of 'an eye for an eye', which differs in context and application.
Exodus 21:23-25: And if [any] mischief follow, then thou shalt give life for life,
Contradiction with Galatians 5:14
Emphasizes love as the fulfillment of the law, which may imply a contradiction if interpreting Mark 9:47 literally rather than metaphorically.
Galatians 5:14: For all the law is fulfilled in one word, [even] in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Describes the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit, suggesting its sanctity rather than mutilation.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20: What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost [which is] in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
Contradiction with Romans 12:1
Urges offering bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing, interpreting spiritual rather than physical sacrifice.
Romans 12:1: I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, [which is] your reasonable service.
Paradox #1
The verse from Mark 9:47 might seem to suggest a physical action in response to sin, which could contradict the idea that sin is a matter of the heart and mind, rather than physical body parts. It raises questions about whether such a literal interpretation aligns with other biblical teachings emphasizing internal transformation over external actions.
Paradox #2
Mark 9:47 might raise questions about literal interpretation versus metaphorical understanding. The verse seems to suggest a drastic action to avoid sin, which could conflict with the broader biblical message of forgiveness and non-violence. Some might see a contradiction if it's taken literally, while others might view it as a metaphor for removing sources of sin from one's life.
Paradox #3
The contradiction, inconsistency, or conflict might come from differing interpretations of the severity of the message in terms of literal versus metaphorical understanding, contrasting with other religious or cultural teachings on how to handle one's body and moral failings.
Paradox #4
The potential contradiction in Mark 9:47 is the idea of self-harm as a means to avoid wrongdoing. It suggests that physical harm to oneself could be acceptable or necessary for moral reasons, which conflicts with general principles of preserving one's own well-being and life. Many modern readers might struggle with this notion, as it seems to contradict the idea of caring for and valuing one's own body.