Contradiction with Genesis 10:11-12
While Nahum 3:9 emphasizes the strength and alliance of Ethiopia and Egypt, Genesis 10:11-12 describes the founding of Assyrian cities like Nineveh, highlighting the power and reach of Assyria, which Nahum implies will fall despite such alliances.
Genesis 10:11-12: Out of that land went forth Asshur, and builded Nineveh, and the city Rehoboth, and Calah, [went...: or, he went out into Assyria] [the city...: or, the streets of the city]
Contradiction with Isaiah 30:3
Nahum 3:9 discusses the strength Egypt provided as a helper, but Isaiah 30:3 warns that trusting in Egypt will lead to shame and confusion, implying such alliances are ultimately futile.
Isaiah 30:3: Therefore shall the strength of Pharaoh be your shame, and the trust in the shadow of Egypt [your] confusion.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 46:17
Nahum 3:9 references the might of Egypt as supporting strength, whereas Jeremiah 46:17 declares Egypt's king as ineffective and missing his opportunity, which contradicts the notion of security and power.
Jeremiah 46:17: They did cry there, Pharaoh king of Egypt [is but] a noise; he hath passed the time appointed.
Contradiction with Ezekiel 29:6-7
In contrast to Nahum 3:9 showing Egypt as a source of strength, Ezekiel 29:6-7 portrays Egypt as a broken staff of reed to the house of Israel, implying that reliance on Egypt is unreliable.
Ezekiel 29:6-7: And all the inhabitants of Egypt shall know that I [am] the LORD, because they have been a staff of reed to the house of Israel.
Contradiction with Isaiah 20:5-6
Nahum 3:9 speaks to the power of those who rely on Egypt and Cush, but Isaiah 20:5-6 prophesies that reliance on Egypt will lead to dismay and shame for those who trusted in that alliance.
Isaiah 20:5-6: And they shall be afraid and ashamed of Ethiopia their expectation, and of Egypt their glory.
Contradiction with Ezekiel 30:4-5
Nahum 3:9 highlights powerful allies like Put and Lubim, but Ezekiel 30:4-5 foretells the day of Egypt's doom and the failure of its allies, contrasting their supposed strength.
Ezekiel 30:4-5: And the sword shall come upon Egypt, and great pain shall be in Ethiopia, when the slain shall fall in Egypt, and they shall take away her multitude, and her foundations shall be broken down. [pain: or, fear]
Paradox #1
Nahum 3:9 mentions Ethiopia and Egypt as being powerful allies. Historically, there might be some debate over the strength and influence of these nations at various times, as their power could have fluctuated. Additionally, historical records may not always align perfectly with biblical timelines and events, leading to possible inconsistencies between different sources.