Contradiction with Psalm 103:8
This verse contradicts by emphasizing the Lord's compassion and slow-to-anger nature, while Numbers 16:32 depicts God's immediate wrath.
Psalm 103:8: The LORD [is] merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. [plentious...: Heb. great in mercy]
Contradiction with James 1:13
This verse suggests God does not tempt or directly cause evil, contradicting the act of the earth swallowing people in Numbers 16:32.
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 Ezekiel 18:23
This verse expresses God's desire for the wicked to repent rather than perish, in contrast to the immediate judgment in Numbers 16:32.
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 2 Peter 3:9
This verse highlights God's patience and desire for repentance, contradicting the swift punishment in Numbers 16:32.
2 Peter 3:9: The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44-45
Jesus teaches love for enemies in these verses, which contrasts with the direct destruction of adversaries in Numbers 16:32.
Matthew 5:44-45: 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;
Paradox #1
The contradiction or inconsistency related to Numbers 16:32 could be the miraculous nature of the earth swallowing the rebels, which some may consider a supernatural event difficult to reconcile with natural historical accounts. Skeptics might question the lack of archaeological evidence or historical records outside the Bible for such an event.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in the event described in Numbers 16:32 is the concept of the earth suddenly opening up and swallowing people and their belongings. In geological terms, such an event without any forewarning or natural cause is highly unlikely, as earthquakes or sinkholes typically occur due to specific geological processes and are predictable to some extent. This account does not align with our current understanding of earth science.