Contradiction with Exodus 20:13
This verse says "Thou shalt not kill," which contradicts the command to kill in Numbers 31:17.
Exodus 20:13: Thou shalt not kill.
Contradiction with Matthew 5:44
This verse instructs to "love your enemies," which contradicts the action of killing in Numbers 31:17.
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
This verse states, "A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast," suggesting compassion for living beings, contrary to the act in Numbers 31:17.
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 Romans 12:17
This verse advises, "Recompense to no man evil for evil," contradicting the retaliation and violence in Numbers 31:17.
Romans 12:17: Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
Contradiction with Ezekiel 18:32
This verse states, "For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord," contradicting the instructions to kill in Numbers 31:17.
Ezekiel 18:32: For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord GOD: wherefore turn [yourselves], and live ye. [yourselves: or, others]
Paradox #1
Numbers 31:17 has been a source of debate due to its depiction of actions commanded by God that some find morally troubling. The primary theological conflict arises from reconciling the command with the image of a loving and just God. This raises questions about the morality of divinely sanctioned actions in the context of historical and cultural settings versus modern ethical standards.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or conflict with Numbers 31:17 could arise from its depiction of actions that seem to conflict with teachings about compassion, mercy, and the value of human life found elsewhere in the Bible. Some people find it hard to reconcile the command in this verse with the overall message of love and kindness in both the Old and New Testaments. This generates discussions about how to interpret such passages within the broader biblical context.
Paradox #3
The contradiction or inconsistency with this verse might be related to the ethical and moral standards of today versus those of ancient times. Actions described may conflict with modern views on morality, human rights, and the treatment of others, leading to debates about historical context and interpretation.
Paradox #4
This verse involves moral and ethical issues rather than a contradiction. It describes an event that may conflict with modern ethical and humanitarian standards, as it involves actions that are not acceptable by today's norms and laws. However, it does not directly contradict scientific principles or empirical knowledge.
Paradox #5
The contradiction or conflict related to this verse arises from the command to harm a specific group of people. It raises questions about justice and compassion, especially when considering the broader biblical messages of love, mercy, and the sanctity of life. This can seem inconsistent with the principles of forgiveness and protection of the innocent found elsewhere in the Bible.