Contradiction with Exodus 19:8
The Israelites agreed to obey God's commands, contradicting their disobedience and rebellion mentioned in Nehemiah 9:16.
Exodus 19:8: And all the people answered together, and said, All that the LORD hath spoken we will do. And Moses returned the words of the people unto the LORD.
Contradiction with Numbers 23:21
God does not observe iniquity or rebellion in Israel, contradicting the claim of Israel's rebellion in Nehemiah 9:16.
Numbers 23:21: He hath not beheld iniquity in Jacob, neither hath he seen perverseness in Israel: the LORD his God [is] with him, and the shout of a king [is] among them.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 5:27
The Israelites express a willingness to hear and do all that God commands, which contradicts their rebellious nature depicted in Nehemiah 9:16.
Deuteronomy 5:27: Go thou near, and hear all that the LORD our God shall say: and speak thou unto us all that the LORD our God shall speak unto thee; and we will hear [it], and do [it].
Contradiction with Joshua 24:24
The people of Israel promise to serve and obey the Lord, which contradicts their rebellion as noted in Nehemiah 9:16.
Joshua 24:24: And the people said unto Joshua, The LORD our God will we serve, and his voice will we obey.
Contradiction with 2 Chronicles 30:8
Encourages not to be stiff-necked (as in past rebellions), which highlights that obedience is possible and implies previous willingness aside from the rebellion in Nehemiah 9:16.
2 Chronicles 30:8: Now be ye not stiffnecked, as your fathers [were, but] yield yourselves unto the LORD, and enter into his sanctuary, which he hath sanctified for ever: and serve the LORD your God, that the fierceness of his wrath may turn away from you. [be ye...: Heb. harden not your necks] [yield...: Heb. give the hand]
Paradox #1
Nehemiah 9:16 highlights the disobedience and pride of the Israelites despite God's kindness. Some might see a contradiction when comparing this with verses that speak of humans being created in the image of God, suggesting an inherent goodness. This might seem inconsistent, but it is generally understood as reflecting the complexity of human nature and the importance of free will.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction or conflict in Nehemiah 9:16 could lie in the idea of people being disobedient or rebellious despite receiving guidance and goodness. This might conflict with the notion of inherent gratitude or righteousness expected in return for kindness and help. It raises questions about the human tendency to turn away from what is good, even when it seems irrational to do so.