Contradiction with Exodus 34:7
While Numbers 14:20 speaks of pardon, Exodus 34:7 mentions that God will by no means clear the guilty, suggesting ongoing punishment.
Exodus 34:7: Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear [the guilty]; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth [generation].
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 9:19-20
These verses emphasize God's anger and Moses' intercession, showing that divine pardon isn't as straightforward as in Numbers 14:20.
Deuteronomy 9:19-20: For I was afraid of the anger and hot displeasure, wherewith the LORD was wroth against you to destroy you. But the LORD hearkened unto me at that time also.
Contradiction with Leviticus 26:28
This verse promises that God will walk contrary and chastise, in contrast to the merciful pardoning in Numbers 14:20.
Leviticus 26:28: Then I will walk contrary unto you also in fury; and I, even I, will chastise you seven times for your sins.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 30:11
It indicates God will not leave the guilty unpunished, contradicting the notion of immediate forgiveness in Numbers 14:20.
Jeremiah 30:11: For I [am] with thee, saith the LORD, to save thee: though I make a full end of all nations whither I have scattered thee, yet will I not make a full end of thee: but I will correct thee in measure, and will not leave thee altogether unpunished.
Contradiction with Nahum 1:3
Nahum describes God as being slow to anger but of great power, not acquitting the wicked, juxtaposing the pardon in Numbers 14:20.
Nahum 1:3: The LORD [is] slow to anger, and great in power, and will not at all acquit [the wicked]: the LORD hath his way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds [are] the dust of his feet.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in this verse may revolve around the idea of divine forgiveness versus justice. On one hand, it suggests God's willingness to forgive, while on the other hand, it may raise questions about how forgiveness aligns with holding people accountable for their actions. Some might see a conflict in how God can forgive yet still implement consequences for disobedience.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction in Numbers 14:20 could be seen in the balance between justice and mercy. On one hand, the verse shows God's forgiveness, which emphasizes mercy and compassion. However, this could be seen as conflicting with the need for justice or consequences for wrongdoing. This tension between showing mercy and upholding justice can appear inconsistent or challenging to reconcile.