Contradiction with Numbers 14:1-2
These verses describe the Israelites' fear and rebellion against entering the land, contradicting the mission of exploration commanded in Numbers 13:17 as an act of faith and preparation.
Numbers 14:1-2: And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the people wept that night.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 1:22-23
In this account, the idea to send spies came from the people and not God, which contradicts Numbers 13:17 where Moses directly commands the sending of spies at God’s instruction.
Deuteronomy 1:22-23: And ye came near unto me every one of you, and said, We will send men before us, and they shall search us out the land, and bring us word again by what way we must go up, and into what cities we shall come.
Contradiction with Joshua 2:1
Joshua sends two spies secretly, whereas in Numbers 13:17, the mission is openly commanded by Moses, indicating a difference in approach and transparency.
Joshua 2:1: And Joshua the son of Nun sent out of Shittim two men to spy secretly, saying, Go view the land, even Jericho. And they went, and came into an harlot's house, named Rahab, and lodged there. [sent: or, had sent] [lodged: Heb. lay]
Contradiction with Numbers 14:6-9
Joshua and Caleb's encouragement to seize the land contrasts with the caution and reconnaissance nature of Numbers 13:17.
Numbers 14:6-9: And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, [which were] of them that searched the land, rent their clothes:
Contradiction with Hebrews 3:19
This verse notes unbelief as the reason for not entering the land, contradicting the purpose of Numbers 13:17, which was to explore in preparation for entry.
Hebrews 3:19: So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief.