Contradiction with Exodus 31:13
Nehemiah 9:14 suggests that God made known the holy Sabbath directly to the Israelites at Mount Sinai, but Exodus 31:13 implies that God already sanctified the Sabbath and made it known as a sign between Him and the children of Israel earlier.
Exodus 31:13: Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it [is] a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that [ye] may know that I [am] the LORD that doth sanctify you.
Contradiction with Genesis 2:3
Nehemiah 9:14 emphasizes the communication of the Sabbath at Sinai, while Genesis 2:3 indicates the sanctification of the Sabbath at Creation, suggesting it was known before Sinai.
Genesis 2:3: And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made. [created...: Heb. created to make]
Contradiction with Exodus 16:23-30
Nehemiah 9:14 states the Sabbath command was made known at Sinai, yet Exodus 16:23-30 shows Israelites observing the Sabbath in the wilderness before reaching Sinai
Exodus 16:23-30: And he said unto them, This [is that] which the LORD hath said, To morrow [is] the rest of the holy sabbath unto the LORD: bake [that] which ye will bake [to day], and seethe that ye will seethe; and that which remaineth over lay up for you to be kept until the morning.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 5:15
Nehemiah 9:14 suggests the introduction of the Sabbath law at Sinai, whereas Deuteronomy 5:15 ties the Sabbath observance to Israel’s deliverance from Egypt, implying a purpose beyond Sinai.
Deuteronomy 5:15: And remember that thou wast a servant in the land of Egypt, and [that] the LORD thy God brought thee out thence through a mighty hand and by a stretched out arm: therefore the LORD thy God commanded thee to keep the sabbath day.
Contradiction with Exodus 20:11
Nehemiah 9:14 points to the introduction of the Sabbath at Sinai, while Exodus 20:11 relates its observance back to the creation week, indicating its significance predates Sinai.
Exodus 20:11: For [in] six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them [is], and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.
Paradox #1
Nehemiah 9:14 talks about God giving laws and commandments, including the Sabbath. A possible contradiction might be in the application of these laws. While the Bible promotes love and mercy, strict adherence to laws without considering context or compassion can sometimes lead to actions that might seem harsh or unjust. This could create tension between following rules and practicing kindness.