Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Teaches to love your enemies and do good to those who hate you, contradicting Phinehas' violent act.
Matthew 5:44: But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
Contradiction with Proverbs 15:1
Advocates for a gentle answer to turn away wrath, conflicting with the harsh action taken.
Proverbs 15:1: A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
Contradiction with Romans 12:17-19
Encourages not repaying evil for evil and leaving vengeance to God, opposing Phinehas' immediate retaliation.
Romans 12:17-19: Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
Contradiction with James 1:20
States that human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires, unlike the violent response in Numbers 25:7.
James 1:20: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:9
Promotes peacemaking as a virtue, clashing with the confrontation and spearing in Numbers 25:7.
Matthew 5:9: Blessed [are] the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
Contradiction with Psalm 37:8
Advises to refrain from anger and forsake wrath, contrasting with the aggressive approach taken by Phinehas.
Psalm 37:8: Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.
Paradox #1
The contradiction in Numbers 25:7 could involve the tension between using violence and upholding religious or moral laws. The verse describes an act of violence committed out of zeal for following God's command, which can be seen as conflicting with other biblical teachings that promote love and non-violence. This act can raise questions about when, if ever, violence is justified in the name of religion or moral duty.