Contradiction with Exodus 20:3
This verse commands worship of no other gods, contradicting Numbers 25:3 where Israelites worship Baal-peor.
Exodus 20:3: Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 6:14
This verse instructs not to go after other gods, which contrasts with the Israelites' actions in Numbers 25:3.
Deuteronomy 6:14: Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which [are] round about you;
Contradiction with Exodus 34:14
Declares that God is a jealous God and His name is Jealous, contradicting Israelites worshiping Baal-peor in Numbers 25:3.
Exodus 34:14: For thou shalt worship no other god: for the LORD, whose name [is] Jealous, [is] a jealous God:
Contradiction with Isaiah 42:8
States that God will not give His glory to another, in contrast to the worship of Baal-peor in Numbers 25:3.
Isaiah 42:8: I [am] the LORD: that [is] my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.
Contradiction with Hosea 13:4
Emphasizes that there is no savior besides God, contradicting the turning to another deity in Numbers 25:3.
Hosea 13:4: Yet I [am] the LORD thy God from the land of Egypt, and thou shalt know no god but me: for [there is] no saviour beside me.
Contradiction with Jeremiah 25:6
Warns against following other gods, which is violated by the actions in Numbers 25:3.
Jeremiah 25:6: And go not after other gods to serve them, and to worship them, and provoke me not to anger with the works of your hands; and I will do you no hurt.
Contradiction with Psalm 81:9
Commands to not have any strange god, opposing the events in Numbers 25:3.
Psalm 81:9: There shall no strange god be in thee; neither shalt thou worship any strange god.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in Numbers 25:3 could relate to the issue of idolatry and the Israelites' covenant with God, where they are called to worship only Him. This verse highlights the Israelites worshiping another deity, which conflicts with the First Commandment. This disobedience contrasts with their covenantal agreement to be faithful to God alone.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in Numbers 25:3 could be seen as the conflict between the demand for exclusive worship and the severe punishment for idolatry. It raises questions about the justice and compassion in the extreme response to turning away from certain beliefs or practices.