Numbers 2:12 Contradictions and Paradoxes

According to Moses, this verse explains how the people from the family group of Simeon set up their tents together, and their leader is a man named Shelumiel. It's like when different families camp out and have a special person in charge to help organize everyone.

Contradiction with Numbers 1:47-49

These verses state that the Levites were not numbered among the other tribes, contradicting the idea of specific tribal orderliness or numbering implied in Numbers 2:12.

Numbers 1:47-49: But the Levites after the tribe of their fathers were not numbered among them.

Contradiction with Exodus 17:8-9

These verses describe Israelite movements and battles led by Moses and Joshua, while Numbers 2:12 discusses camp arrangements and leadership roles, which contrasts with the focus on military actions and leadership.

Exodus 17:8-9: Then came Amalek, and fought with Israel in Rephidim.

Contradiction with Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 19:30

This passage emphasizes that "many that are first shall be last, and the last shall be first," contradicting the ordered arrangement of tribes in Numbers 2:12 which suggests hierarchy.

Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 19:30:

Contradiction with Genesis 49:14

This verse describes Issachar as a strong donkey lying down between burdens, which contrasts with the military connotation of the arrangement of tribes in Numbers 2:12.

Genesis 49:14: Issachar [is] a strong ass couching down between two burdens:

Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 12:12-27

Paul discusses the unity and interdependence of all members of Christ's body (the church), which emphasizes unity over distinct, ordered roles like those in Numbers 2:12.

1 Corinthians 12:12-27: For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also [is] Christ.

Contradiction with Acts 10:34-35

Peter states that God shows no favoritism, which contrasts with the hierarchical order of tribes presented in Numbers 2:12.