Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Contradicts by advocating love and prayer for enemies, whereas Numbers 19:11 discusses uncleanness due to physical contact with the dead.
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 Mark 7:18-19
Declares all foods clean, contradicting the concept of ceremonial uncleanness described in Numbers 19:11.
Mark 7:18-19: Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats?
Contradiction with Acts 10:15
Proclaims that nothing God has made is unclean, which challenges the impurity associated with touching the dead in Numbers 19:11.
Acts 10:15: And the voice [spake] unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, [that] call not thou common.
Contradiction with Romans 14:14
States that nothing is unclean in itself, opposing the idea of uncleanness through contact as mentioned in Numbers 19:11.
Romans 14:14: I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that [there is] nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him [it is] unclean. [unclean: Gr. common]
Contradiction with Titus 1:15
Claims that to the pure, all things are pure, challenging the notion of defilement by contact in Numbers 19:11.
Titus 1:15: Unto the pure all things [are] pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving [is] nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled.
Contradiction with Hebrews 10:22
Encourages drawing near with a clear conscience, contrasting the physical defilement and need for purification rites in Numbers 19:11.
Hebrews 10:22: Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
Paradox #1
Numbers 19:11 talks about the impurity from touching a dead body and requires a purification process. Some people might see this as a contradiction or conflict with the teachings in the New Testament, where Jesus touches the dead (like in the case of Jairus’ daughter) without becoming impure. The contrast between the strict Old Testament laws about impurity and Jesus’ actions demonstrating authority and purity might be seen as inconsistent.
Paradox #2
Numbers 19:11 discusses rituals for purification after touching a dead body. A scientific conflict might arise because modern science understands the decomposition of organic matter in terms of biology and chemistry, without attributing spiritual impurity. Science would approach the matter hygienically, focusing on sanitation rather than spiritual cleanliness.
Paradox #3
The moral conflict in this verse arises from the ritual impurity associated with touching a dead body, which might seem harsh or unfair. It can conflict with the compassionate act of caring for the deceased or comforting the grieving, which are generally seen as good and loving actions. Thus, this rule can be hard to reconcile with the values of empathy and kindness.