Contradiction with Luke 6:35
This verse encourages showing love and kindness without expecting anything in return, whereas Nehemiah 5:15 denounces the exploitative behavior of previous leaders who burdened the people, implying Nehemiah chose to act differently for fear of God.
Luke 6:35: But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and [to] the evil.
Contradiction with 1 Samuel 8:11-18
This passage describes Samuel warning the Israelites about the burdens and taxes a king would impose, which contrasts with Nehemiah 5:15, where Nehemiah sets himself apart by not laying burdens on the people.
1 Samuel 8:11-18: And he said, This will be the manner of the king that shall reign over you: He will take your sons, and appoint [them] for himself, for his chariots, and [to be] his horsemen; and [some] shall run before his chariots.
Contradiction with Matthew 23:4
Here, Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for placing heavy burdens on others while Nehemiah claims in 5:15 that he did not burden the people, highlighting a lack of exploitation.
Matthew 23:4: For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay [them] on men's shoulders; but they [themselves] will not move them with one of their fingers.
Contradiction with Ezekiel 34:4
This verse criticizes shepherds for harshly ruling over the flock, in contrast with Nehemiah 5:15, where Nehemiah consciously avoids such burdensome leadership.
Ezekiel 34:4: The diseased have ye not strengthened, neither have ye healed that which was sick, neither have ye bound up [that which was] broken, neither have ye brought again that which was driven away, neither have ye sought that which was lost; but with force and with cruelty have ye ruled them.
Paradox #1
Some might see a contradiction with the theme of leaders using their positions for personal gain, especially when compared to other biblical passages that criticize or warn against such practices. However, Nehemiah 5:15 itself highlights Nehemiah's integrity in contrast to other officials. This isn't a contradiction but more of a narrative contrast illustrating different approaches to leadership and morality. Overall, this is not a significant doctrinal conflict.