Contradiction with Exodus 17:6
In Exodus 17:6, Moses is commanded by God to strike the rock for water, which he does without issue, unlike in Numbers 27:14 where striking the rock is seen as a sin.
Exodus 17:6: Behold, I will stand before thee there upon the rock in Horeb; and thou shalt smite the rock, and there shall come water out of it, that the people may drink. And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel.
Contradiction with Numbers 20:8
Numbers 20:8 instructs Moses to speak to the rock to bring forth water, contradicting the act of striking the rock mentioned as a reason for his sin in Numbers 27:14.
Numbers 20:8: Take the rod, and gather thou the assembly together, thou, and Aaron thy brother, and speak ye unto the rock before their eyes; and it shall give forth his water, and thou shalt bring forth to them water out of the rock: so thou shalt give the congregation and their beasts drink.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 1:37
This verse suggests Moses' exclusion from the Promised Land was due to the actions of the Israelites, contrasting with Numbers 27:14, which attributes it to his own disobedience.
Deuteronomy 1:37: Also the LORD was angry with me for your sakes, saying, Thou also shalt not go in thither.
Contradiction with Deuteronomy 3:26
In this verse, Moses indicates the Lord was angry with him due to the Israelites' behavior, not solely because of his actions, offering a different perspective from Numbers 27:14.
Deuteronomy 3:26: But the LORD was wroth with me for your sakes, and would not hear me: and the LORD said unto me, Let it suffice thee; speak no more unto me of this matter.
Paradox #1
Numbers 27:14 mentions a consequence for a past act of disobedience by Moses. A theological conflict might arise when considering that Moses, a key leader chosen by God, was not allowed to enter the Promised Land due to this one act. Some may find it difficult to reconcile God's justice and mercy in this scenario, questioning why a single mistake had such a severe outcome for a faithful servant. This might appear inconsistent with other biblical themes of forgiveness and redemption.