Contradiction with Genesis 18:25
This verse emphasizes God's justice, questioning if the righteous should be treated like the wicked, whereas Numbers 16:30 involves a miraculous judgment distinguishing the rebellious.
Genesis 18:25: That be far from thee to do after this manner, to slay the righteous with the wicked: and that the righteous should be as the wicked, that be far from thee: Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?
Contradiction with Exodus 14:14
Here, the Lord is described as fighting for the Israelites, suggesting divine intervention without direct punishment like Numbers 16:30, which involves the earth swallowing the rebellious.
Exodus 14:14: The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.
Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:23
This verse states that God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked, contradicting the severe punishment in Numbers 16:30.
Ezekiel 18:23: Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: [and] not that he should return from his ways, and live?
Contradiction with Jonah 3:10
This verse shows God's mercy and relenting from disaster upon repentance, contrasting with the immediate punishment in Numbers 16:30.
Jonah 3:10: And God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way; and God repented of the evil, that he had said that he would do unto them; and he did [it] not.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Jesus commands love for enemies, which contradicts the swift and harsh punishment described in Numbers 16:30.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with Romans 2:4
This verse talks about God's kindness and patience leading to repentance, whereas Numbers 16:30 involves instant judgment.
Romans 2:4: Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?
Contradiction with James 2:13
It states that mercy triumphs over judgment, which contrasts with the severe and immediate judgment in Numbers 16:30.
James 2:13: For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. [rejoiceth: or, glorieth]
Paradox #1
Numbers 16:30 describes the earth opening up and swallowing a group of people. Scientifically, there is no evidence that the earth can selectively and suddenly open to engulf people as an act of divine intervention. Such an event would be attributed to natural geological phenomena like earthquakes or sinkholes, which are not selective and do not occur as acts of divine will. Hence, this narrative conflicts with scientific understanding of natural earth processes.
Paradox #2
The potential contradiction in Numbers 16:30 could arise from the idea of divine punishment with severe consequences. Some might see a conflict between the concept of a loving and forgiving deity and the harshness of certain punishments described. The tension lies in reconciling justice with mercy and understanding why such severe measures are taken.