Contradiction with Exodus 20:13
This verse commands "Thou shalt not kill," which contradicts the context of war and taking spoils seen in Numbers 31:11.
Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
Jesus teaches to "Love your enemies," which contradicts the capture and taking spoils of war represented in Numbers 31:11.
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 12:10
States "A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast," emphasizing kindness to living beings, which conflicts with the taking of spoils, including animals, in Numbers 31:11.
Proverbs 12:10: A righteous [man] regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked [are] cruel. [tender...: or, bowels]
Contradiction with Isaiah 2:4
Prophecies beating swords into plowshares, advocating for peace, contrasting the war capture in Numbers 31:11.
Isaiah 2:4: And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. [pruninghooks: or, scythes]
Contradiction with Matthew 7:12
The Golden Rule, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you," contradicts the act of taking goods from others as in Numbers 31:11.
Matthew 7:12: Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
Paradox #1
Numbers 31:11 might raise questions about the morality of taking spoils of war, including people and goods, according to divine command, which can seem inconsistent with themes of love and justice in other parts of the Bible. This could appear contradictory to teachings on the value of human life and ethical treatment of others.
Paradox #2
The contradiction in Numbers 31:11 arises from the ethical and moral perspective. The verse is part of a passage where the Israelites are instructed to take spoils of war, including people. This can conflict with contemporary moral values about war ethics, human rights, and the treatment of captives, leading to debates on its historical and ethical context.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or conflict in Numbers 31:11 may arise from the idea of taking spoils of war, including people and goods, which can conflict with modern values of human rights and the treatment of individuals. This action can seem inconsistent with principles like compassion and justice.