Contradictions and Paradoxes in Numbers 22:34

Check out Contradictions Catalog of Numbers 22:34 for the comprehensive list of verses that contradicts Numbers 22:34. Some key contradictions and paradoxes are described below.

According to Moses, Balaam told the angel that he made a mistake because he didn't know the angel was there to stop him, and he said he would go back if that's what the angel wanted. It's like when you're playing a game and didn't see someone coming, and you say sorry and offer to start over if needed.

Numbers 22:34: And Balaam said unto the angel of the LORD, I have sinned; for I knew not that thou stoodest in the way against me: now therefore, if it displease thee, I will get me back again. [displease...: Heb. be evil in thine eyes]

Contradiction with Proverbs 29:1

Whereas Numbers 22:34 shows Balaam admitting sin and changing his path due to rebuke, Proverbs 29:1 warns that continual stubbornness despite rebuke leads to sudden destruction without remedy.

Proverbs 29:1: He, that being often reproved hardeneth [his] neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy. [He...: Heb. A man of reproofs]

Contradiction with Jeremiah 13:23

Numbers 22:34 suggests a change after realization, but Jeremiah 13:23 indicates that people have difficulty changing their nature, likening it to a leopard changing its spots.

Jeremiah 13:23: Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots? [then] may ye also do good, that are accustomed to do evil. [accustomed: Heb. taught]

Contradiction with James 1:8

Numbers 22:34 shows Balaam seeming to repent and follow God's command, but James 1:8 suggests that a double-minded man, like Balaam, is unstable in his ways, implying inconsistency in true intent or behavior.

James 1:8: A double minded man [is] unstable in all his ways.

Contradiction with Matthew 15:8

In Numbers 22:34, Balaam professes obedience, yet Matthew 15:8 speaks about honoring with lips while the heart is far, suggesting possible insincerity in Balaam's repentance.

Matthew 15:8: This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with [their] lips; but their heart is far from me.

Contradiction with Romans 7:15

Numbers 22:34 shows an act of confession and adjustment in action, whereas Romans 7:15 reflects the internal struggle of doing what one does not want to do, questioning the genuine behavioral change.

Romans 7:15: For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. [allow: Gr. know]

Paradox #1

The contradiction in Numbers 22:34 could be the idea of punishment for unintended actions. Balaam is reprimanded for an action he was not consciously aware was wrong. This might seem unfair or contradictory, as it challenges the notion of accountability only for deliberate wrongdoing.

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