Contradiction with Romans 14:14
This verse suggests that nothing is unclean in itself, which contradicts the idea in Numbers 19:20 that not purifying oneself renders a person unclean.
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 Acts 10:15
This verse emphasizes that what God has cleansed should not be called common or unclean, opposing the idea that individuals must purify themselves through rituals.
Acts 10:15: And the voice [spake] unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, [that] call not thou common.
Contradiction with Matthew 15:11
This verse states that what enters the mouth does not defile a person, contrasting with the notion in Numbers 19:20 related to purification and uncleanness.
Matthew 15:11: Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.
Contradiction with Mark 7:18-19
This passage teaches that food cannot defile a person, challenging the ceremonial cleanliness concepts found in Numbers 19:20.
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 Colossians 2:16-17
This verse advises against being judged on ritualistic practices, which contradicts the enforcement of purification laws seen in Numbers 19:20.
Colossians 2:16-17: Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath [days]: [in meat...: or, for eating and drinking] [respect: or, part]
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 8:8
This verse asserts that food does not commend us to God, going against Numbers 19:20's emphasis on ritual purity.
1 Corinthians 8:8: But meat commendeth us not to God: for neither, if we eat, are we the better; neither, if we eat not, are we the worse. [are we the better: or, have we the more] [are we the worse: or, have we the less]
Paradox #1
The contradiction in this context might relate to the concepts of ritual purity and cleansing with water mixed with ashes of a red heifer as described in ancient texts, which don't align with modern scientific understandings of hygiene and disease prevention. Today, we know that cleanliness and disease prevention are more effectively addressed through methods that are based on germ theory and the use of disinfectants that have proven efficacy, rather than ritualistic practices.
Paradox #2
This verse is about rules for purification and consequences for not following them, which might seem harsh or inconsistent with the idea of mercy and forgiveness often emphasized in other parts of religious teachings. It reflects a strict adherence to ritual law, which could conflict with more compassionate or lenient interpretations.