Contradiction with Deuteronomy 24:1
This verse allows for divorce if a man finds some "uncleanness" in his wife, which contradicts the permanence of marriage implied in Matthew 19:6.
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 Ezra 10:3
This verse describes the Israelites agreeing to put away foreign wives and their children, which contradicts the idea that no one should separate a married couple.
Ezra 10:3: Now therefore let us make a covenant with our God to put away all the wives, and such as are born of them, according to the counsel of my lord, and of those that tremble at the commandment of our God; and let it be done according to the law. [to put...: Heb. to bring forth]
Contradiction with Jeremiah 3:8
God gives Israel a "bill of divorce" due to unfaithfulness, which seems to contradict the idea that marriage should not be separated.
Jeremiah 3:8: And I saw, when for all the causes whereby backsliding Israel committed adultery I had put her away, and given her a bill of divorce; yet her treacherous sister Judah feared not, but went and played the harlot also.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:31-32
This passage allows for divorce in cases of marital unfaithfulness, seeming to contradict the idea of absolute permanence in marriage stated in Matthew 19:6.
Matthew 5:31-32: It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement:
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 7:15
Paul mentions that if an unbelieving partner leaves the marriage, the believer is not "under bondage," suggesting a form of separation that contrasts with Matthew 19:6.
1 Corinthians 7:15: But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such [cases]: but God hath called us to peace. [to peace: Gr. in peace]
Paradox #1
The verse suggests permanence in marriage. The potential conflict arises when comparing this with other parts of the Bible that discuss divorce, like in Deuteronomy 24:1-4, where divorce is permissible under certain conditions. This can seem inconsistent to readers wondering if marriage should be permanent or if divorce is acceptable in some cases.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or inconsistency related to that verse could be seen in situations where divorce becomes necessary, such as in cases of abuse or harm. The verse emphasizes the permanence of marriage, which might conflict with the moral imperative to protect oneself or others from harm. This could create a tension between the ideal of an unbreakable union and the reality of needing to ensure personal safety and well-being.