Contradiction with Numbers 23:19
This verse states that God does not change His mind, while Numbers 22:12 shows God changing His instructions regarding Balaam.
Numbers 23:19: God [is] not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do [it]? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?
Contradiction with 1 Samuel 15:29
God is described as not lying or repenting, contradicting the change in direction given to Balaam in Numbers 22:12.
1 Samuel 15:29: And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he [is] not a man, that he should repent. [Strength: or, Eternity, or, Victory]
Contradiction with James 1:17
This verse claims there is no change or variation in God, contrasting with God’s altered command in Numbers 22:12.
James 1:17: Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Paradox #1
In Numbers 22:12, God tells Balaam not to go with the messengers to curse the Israelites. However, later in the chapter, God tells Balaam he may go (Numbers 22:20). This can seem inconsistent because initially, God says not to go, but then He allows it under certain conditions. Some interpret this as a test of Balaam's intent or as a way to reveal God's ultimate plan.
Paradox #2
The contradiction might arise from the broader story context in which God first tells Balaam not to go with the men to curse the Israelites, but later allows him to go under certain conditions. This can seem inconsistent or confusing as it suggests a change in God's instructions, which might appear contradictory to the idea of an unchanging and consistent divine will.