Numbers 11:18 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to Moses, God was telling the people to get ready now because tomorrow He would give them meat to eat, like they had when they were in Egypt, because they were crying and complaining that they wanted it. God promised they would have enough meat to eat because He had heard them.

Contradiction with Proverbs 15:29

This verse states that the Lord is far from the wicked, but Numbers 11:18 has God addressing the Israelites when they complained, suggesting He is near even when they do wrong.

Proverbs 15:29: The LORD [is] far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.

Contradiction with James 1:13

Numbers 11:18 implies God is testing the Israelites, yet this verse states that God does not tempt anyone.

James 1:13: Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: [evil: or, evils]

Contradiction with Psalm 37:25

This verse indicates that the righteous will not be forsaken or lack bread, while Numbers 11:18 involves God responding to complaints about lacking meat.

Psalm 37:25: I have been young, and [now] am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.

Contradiction with Matthew 6:31-32

Here, Jesus teaches not to worry about food or drink because God provides, but in Numbers 11:18, the Israelites worry about meat despite God's provision of manna.

Matthew 6:31-32: Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?

Contradiction with Exodus 20:13

This verse commands not to kill, yet in Numbers 11:18, God's anger with Israel leads to dire consequences for their complaining.

Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.

Paradox #1

Numbers 11:18 might raise questions about God's provision and the Israelites' attitude. On one hand, God is portrayed as compassionate, providing for the Israelites' needs. On the other hand, this verse reflects their dissatisfaction and complaints despite God's provision, which can be seen as a contradiction in human behavior rather than a theological conflict. It underscores a recurring theme in the Bible of human ingratitude or lack of faith. This might seem inconsistent with the idea of unwavering faith and gratitude expected from believers.

Paradox #2

This verse might show a contradiction in the way it presents the concept of abundance versus contentment. It can be seen as conflicting when it highlights people's dissatisfaction despite having their needs met and applying divine repercussions for this dissatisfaction. This could be seen as inconsistent with messages about gratitude and trust.