Contradiction with Isaiah 31:1
This verse contrasts Numbers 24:8 by criticizing reliance on horses and human strength instead of seeking the Lord, whereas Numbers 24:8 emphasizes God's power delivering victory.
Isaiah 31:1: Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help; and stay on horses, and trust in chariots, because [they are] many; and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the LORD!
Contradiction with Psalm 20:7
While Numbers 24:8 highlights God's deliverance through force, this verse emphasizes faith in God rather than in physical means such as chariots and horses.
Psalm 20:7: Some [trust] in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.
Contradiction with Zechariah 4:6
Contrary to Numbers 24:8's portrayal of physical might, this verse declares that success comes not by might nor power but by God's spirit.
Zechariah 4:6: Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This [is] the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. [might: or, army]
Contradiction with Proverbs 21:31
This verse states that safety and victory are from the Lord and not from horses, subtly opposing the depiction of God's use of force in Numbers 24:8.
Proverbs 21:31: The horse [is] prepared against the day of battle: but safety [is] of the LORD. [safety: or, victory]
Paradox #1
Some people might see a contradiction in Numbers 24:8 because it talks about God as a force that leads and empowers Israel to defeat its enemies. This is seen as inconsistent with the idea of a loving and peaceful God, which is highlighted in other parts of the Bible, such as the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament. This apparent tension between God's violent and peaceful roles can be difficult to reconcile for some readers.
Paradox #2
The key issue with the verse is that it describes God as bringing a nation out of Egypt with the strength of a unicorn. From a scientific perspective, unicorns are mythical creatures and do not exist, creating a conflict between the literal interpretation of the text and scientific understanding of animal biology.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in this verse could relate to the idea of God leading people to use force or violence against others, even if it is for a purpose deemed righteous. This can conflict with messages elsewhere in religious texts that promote peace, love, and forgiveness.