Contradictions and Paradoxes in Nehemiah 13:4

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Nehemiah 13:4 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Nehemiah 13:4. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to the author of Nehemiah, Eliashib the priest was in charge of the special rooms in God’s house and had a friendship with Tobiah, someone who was not helping God’s people. This story tells us how important it is to make choices that keep us close to good friends who love God.

Nehemiah 13:4: And before this, Eliashib the priest, having the oversight of the chamber of the house of our God, [was] allied unto Tobiah: [having...: Heb. being set over]

Contradiction with Nehemiah 13:6

This verse indicates Nehemiah was not in Jerusalem, potentially contradicting actions associated with Eliashib during his absence.

Nehemiah 13:6: But in all this [time] was not I at Jerusalem: for in the two and thirtieth year of Artaxerxes king of Babylon came I unto the king, and after certain days obtained I leave of the king: [after...: Heb. at the end of days] [obtained...: or, I earnestly requested]

Contradiction with Nehemiah 13:7-8

These verses describe Nehemiah's disapproval and corrective action, contradicting any sanctioning of Eliashib's actions in 13:4.

Nehemiah 13:7-8: And I came to Jerusalem, and understood of the evil that Eliashib did for Tobiah, in preparing him a chamber in the courts of the house of God.

Contradiction with Nehemiah 13:10-11

These verses highlight the neglect of the Levites’ portions, contradicting any positive view on the allocation and management of temple resources.

Nehemiah 13:10-11: And I perceived that the portions of the Levites had not been given [them]: for the Levites and the singers, that did the work, were fled every one to his field.

Contradiction with Nehemiah 13:14

Nehemiah prays for remembrance against those who defiled the priesthood, contradicting any favor Eliashib might have had in 13:4.

Nehemiah 13:14: Remember me, O my God, concerning this, and wipe not out my good deeds that I have done for the house of my God, and for the offices thereof. [good...: Heb. kindnesses] [offices: or, observations]

Contradiction with Nehemiah 13:28-29

These verses describe how some of the priesthood were driven out for defilement, contradicting any supportive association with Eliashib's actions.

Nehemiah 13:28-29: And [one] of the sons of Joiada, the son of Eliashib the high priest, [was] son in law to Sanballat the Horonite: therefore I chased him from me.

Contradiction with Ezra 10:18

This verse discusses priests found in foreign marriages, contradicting the alliance mentioned in Nehemiah 13:4 by emphasizing strict adherence to the covenant.

Ezra 10:18: And among the sons of the priests there were found that had taken strange wives: [namely], of the sons of Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and his brethren; Maaseiah, and Eliezer, and Jarib, and Gedaliah.

Contradiction with Malachi 2:7-8

This passage condemns priests who have violated their covenant with Levi, which could contradict Eliashib’s alliance with Tobiah in Nehemiah 13:4.

Malachi 2:7-8: For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth: for he [is] the messenger of the LORD of hosts.
Disclaimer: The content provided at PolarBible.com is for educational purposes only. Readers have the full right to agree or disagree with the interpretations and conclusions presented. We take no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken based on the information shared as Polar Verses.