Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:20
This verse emphasizes individual responsibility for sin, which contradicts the plea for pardon in Numbers 14:19 based on the collective and historical sins of the people.
Ezekiel 18:20: The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 24:16
This verse states that each person should be responsible for their own sins, which contradicts the intercessory plea for forgiveness of past iniquities as described in Numbers 14:19.
Deuteronomy 24:16: The fathers shall not be put to death for the children, neither shall the children be put to death for the fathers: every man shall be put to death for his own sin.
Contradiction with Galatians 6:5
This verse speaks about individuals bearing their own burden, contrasting with the collective plea for forgiveness in Numbers 14:19.
Galatians 6:5: For every man shall bear his own burden.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 31:30
This verse stresses personal responsibility for sin, which is at odds with the communal aspect of forgiveness sought in Numbers 14:19.
Jeremiah 31:30: But every one shall die for his own iniquity: every man that eateth the sour grape, his teeth shall be set on edge.
Contradiction with Proverbs 17:15
This verse condemns justifying the wicked, which seems to contrast with the mercy requested in Numbers 14:19 for the sins of the people.
Proverbs 17:15: He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both [are] abomination to the LORD.
Paradox #1
Numbers 14:19 asks for God's forgiveness based on His great love and mercy. A possible contradiction or conflict could be regarding the justice of God versus His mercy. Some might question how God can be fully just while also being richly merciful and forgiving, especially in the face of repeated disobedience. Balancing justice with forgiveness can be seen as inconsistent to human understanding.
Paradox #2
Numbers 14:19 involves asking for forgiveness for a group's mistakes. The potential contradiction could be that it appears unfair for a group to seek forgiveness when individuals did not personally make the mistakes. This raises questions about collective versus individual responsibility. However, some might see it as promoting a sense of unity and shared accountability.