Contradictions and Paradoxes in Numbers 20:14

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Numbers 20:14 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Numbers 20:14. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Moses, the Israelites wanted to pass through the land of Edom and were asking kindly for permission. Moses called the people of Edom their brothers because they were family and wanted to remind them of the troubles they had faced.

Numbers 20:14: And Moses sent messengers from Kadesh unto the king of Edom, Thus saith thy brother Israel, Thou knowest all the travail that hath befallen us: [befallen...: Heb. found us]

Contradiction with Numbers 20:21

Contradicts because Edom refused passage, which conflicts with Israel's request in Numbers 20:14.

Numbers 20:21: Thus Edom refused to give Israel passage through his border: wherefore Israel turned away from him.

Contradiction with Deuteronomy 2:4-5

Contradicts by implying God commanded Israel not to contend with Edom, contrasting with the request for passage.

Deuteronomy 2:4-5: And command thou the people, saying, Ye [are] to pass through the coast of your brethren the children of Esau, which dwell in Seir; and they shall be afraid of you: take ye good heed unto yourselves therefore:

Contradiction with Judges 11:17

Contradicts by indicating that a request to Edom was denied, similar to the previous account, yet it led to conflict.

Judges 11:17: Then Israel sent messengers unto the king of Edom, saying, Let me, I pray thee, pass through thy land: but the king of Edom would not hearken [thereto]. And in like manner they sent unto the king of Moab: but he would not [consent]: and Israel abode in Kadesh.

Contradiction with Obadiah 1:10

Contradicts by highlighting Edom's hostility towards Israel, inconsistent with amicable passage requests.

Obadiah 1:10: For [thy] violence against thy brother Jacob shame shall cover thee, and thou shalt be cut off for ever.

Contradiction with Amos 1:11

Contradicts by depicting Edom's perpetual anger towards Israel, opposite of the implied cooperation request.

Amos 1:11: Thus saith the LORD; For three transgressions of Edom, and for four, I will not turn away [the punishment] thereof; because he did pursue his brother with the sword, and did cast off all pity, and his anger did tear perpetually, and he kept his wrath for ever: [did cast...: Heb. corrupted his compassions]
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