Contradiction with Psalm 145:9
Explains that the Lord is good to all, which contradicts the mass killing of children by Herod in Matthew 2:16.
Psalm 145:9: The LORD [is] good to all: and his tender mercies [are] over all his works.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 31:16
Promises that the children shall return from the enemy's land, contradicting the irreversible massacre in Matthew 2:16.
Jeremiah 31:16: Thus saith the LORD; Refrain thy voice from weeping, and thine eyes from tears: for thy work shall be rewarded, saith the LORD; and they shall come again from the land of the enemy.
Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:32
Declares that God takes no pleasure in the death of anyone, contradicting the tragic event in Matthew 2:16.
Ezekiel 18:32: For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord GOD: wherefore turn [yourselves], and live ye. [yourselves: or, others]
Contradiction with Exodus 20:13
Commandment against killing, contradicting Herod's actions in Matthew 2:16.
Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.
Contradiction with Isaiah 11:6
Describes a peaceful kingdom with children, contrasting the violent events of Matthew 2:16.
Isaiah 11:6: The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.
Paradox #1
Some people see a contradiction because this verse describes a violent and tragic event that seems inconsistent with the idea of a loving and just God. It raises questions about why innocent children would suffer as part of a larger divine plan, challenging the understanding of divine justice and goodness.
Paradox #2
Some scholars point out that there is no historical record outside the Bible of the event described. Known historians from around that time, like Josephus, don't mention it. This absence of evidence has led to questions about its historicity.
Paradox #3
The contradiction relates to the historical accuracy and archeological evidence for the event described. There is no independent historical record or evidence outside of the biblical text confirming that this event took place, which raises questions about its historical authenticity from a scientific and historical perspective.
Paradox #4
The contradiction in Matthew 2:16 could be seen in the sense of innocent suffering. The verse describes a violent act against innocent children, which can challenge the idea of a just and loving God allowing such events to occur. This raises questions about the presence of evil and suffering in a world governed by a benevolent deity.