Contradiction with Exodus 20:8-10
This verse instructs the observance of the Sabbath as a day of rest, whereas Matthew 12:5 explains an exception where priests work on the Sabbath without guilt.
Exodus 20:8-10: Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.
Contradiction with Numbers 15:32-36
This passage depicts a man being punished for working on the Sabbath, conflicting with Matthew 12:5 where priests are permitted to work on the Sabbath without blame.
Numbers 15:32-36: And while the children of Israel were in the wilderness, they found a man that gathered sticks upon the sabbath day.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 17:21-22
This instruction emphasizes not to work on the Sabbath, in contrast to Matthew 12:5 where priests are not considered guilty for their Sabbath duties.
Jeremiah 17:21-22: Thus saith the LORD; Take heed to yourselves, and bear no burden on the sabbath day, nor bring [it] in by the gates of Jerusalem;
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in Matthew 12:5 might involve the idea that the priests in the temple break the Sabbath law but are considered guiltless. This could seem inconsistent with the strict observance of the Sabbath law that is emphasized elsewhere in religious texts. The point here is highlighting an exception in religious practice that might appear contradictory to the law itself.
Paradox #2
Matthew 12:5 raises a potential moral inconsistency because it refers to priests working on the Sabbath by performing temple duties, even though the Sabbath is meant to be a day of rest according to Jewish law. This suggests a conflict between the strict observance of the Sabbath and the necessity of religious duties, highlighting a tension between following the law to the letter and addressing practical or spiritual needs.